Unaware of the scares that lay before us, we happily accepted the invite to preview Cross Roads Escape Game’s newest room — The Weeping Witch — ahead of its grand opening. We had done two of their amazing mini escape rooms exhibited at Midsummer Scream conventions, but it turns out neither of those would prepare us for a full-fledged Cross Roads Escape Games experience!
The Weeping Witch is a spirit that lures people close by mimicking the sound of a woman crying. When people hear its wails, they follow the sound into the darkness, thinking someone needs help. Once they get close enough, the Witch attacks and slowly sucks the life out of its victims.
If you choose to enter Madam Ruby’s study, that is what is awaiting you. Will you be able to banish the evil spirit and end your family curse before the Weeping Witch consumes your soul?
This room is rated as hard, and they weren’t lying. Fortunately with our group of 6 (including friends from Westcoaster, Tales From The Fog & Misfits of Cinema), it was hard in what I would call a ‘fun and enticing’ way. The wide variety of puzzles played to our various strengths (and levels of patience). This room was BEAUTIFUL. The set design, props, audio cues, and lightning were all of the highest quality — you can tell this team really takes pride in their work and absolutely no corners were cut.
The main take-away, (and this might head into spoilerville a bit) this game was scary! Jump scares came out of nowhere and got us each time. Impressive, really. It wasn’t overly gory or trying too hard. The entire design of this escape room had us on edge and worked hand in hand with the live actor to keep the screams coming. At least I think my friends were screaming too, I couldn’t hear. Oh and did I mention this was one friend’s first escape room ever?
We escaped with our lives, and you know what? We’d do it again. You don’t often come across escape rooms that are replayable but this room kept us all busy enough working on different tasks. That means that there are still puzzles I’ve yet to get my hands on. Tell the witch I’ll see her next year!
DIFFICULTY – Hard
# OF PARTICIPANTS – 3-8 players in a private game (6 was great for us)
AGES – Recommended for ages 14+ (It’s SCARY)
SCARE RATING – 4/5 (this really depends on the person. I have a couple friends that would never trust me again if I had brought them along to this)
WARNINGS – Contains flashing lights, loud noises, jump scares, and fog. There is an actor in the game, but they will not touch you.
Cross Roads Escape Games is located in Anaheim, CA. In addition to The Weeping Witch, they also have horror-themed The Hex Room and family-friendly The Fun House. The Weeping Witch is now open! Get tickets and learn more at crossroadsescapegames.com.
