Nantes: Escape Game in City as a Magic Team

Exploring Nantes doesn’t have to mean just wandering through museums or walking along the scenic Loire River. This outdoor escape game offers a fresh, interactive way to uncover the city’s hidden corners and enjoy a little mystery-solving fun. While we haven’t personally played, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this activity is a clever blend of adventure, sightseeing, and storytelling.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the flexibility — you can start when it suits you without pre-booking. Second, the thematic charm — a magic storyline woven into the city’s streets that makes exploring feel like stepping into a fairy tale. Third, the photo and video features — capturing your journey directly to your smartphone adds a personal, lasting memory. However, one consideration is that the game requires a smartphone and a stable network connection, so be prepared for that. This activity is ideal for small groups, families, or friends who love puzzles, city adventures, and a little dose of magic.

Good To Know

• Flexible scheduling allows you to start on your own time without prior reservation
• Cost-effective for groups of up to 6, blending entertainment and sightseeing
• Engages your brain with puzzles and code-breaking amid the city’s streets
• Captivating storyline involving an evil man and a secret underground passage
• Photo and video recording enrich the experience, making memories tangible
• Timed challenge creates a sense of urgency, keeping the game exciting

The Scope of the Experience

This outdoor escape game is designed for groups of up to six people, costing approximately $82.61 per group. You’ll spend roughly two hours wandering through Nantes’ historic city center, solving puzzles, and gathering clues. The game’s core is a narrative about an evil man who has sealed a secret underground passage, and it’s up to your team to uncover the clues to reopen it before the platform disappears forever.

Unlike traditional escape rooms that are confined indoors, this activity takes full advantage of Nantes’ charming streets and historical sights. Starting at Square Élisa-Mercur and ending back at the same point, the route guides you past notable locales tied into the story, adding an element of sightseeing without the need for separate tours.

How the Game Works

Once you download the free app, you’ll receive a unique game code — one per device, making it perfect for small teams. The app offers instructions and the game scenario, which is designed to last around two hours.

The game involves visiting various families indicated on your smartphone, each holding a piece of the puzzle. Your goal is to find four code words, each unlocking a part of the story and bringing you closer to discovering the location of the underground platform. These clues are cleverly integrated into your surroundings—meeting with noble families and their servants, piecing together the story while exploring the streets.

The Puzzles and Clues

While the specific puzzles are not detailed, reviewers mention that the storyline is well-implemented and that solving mysteries is engaging. One reviewer noted the “magic theme is really well integrated and made us smile at every step,” indicating a fun, immersive experience.

The challenge is timed—120 minutes to gather clues, solve puzzles, and prevent the evil spell from sealing the passage forever. This ticking clock adds excitement and pressure, perfect for competitive groups or those who enjoy a challenge.

What to Expect on the Day

You’ll start at Square Élisa-Mercur with instructions on how to access the game via your smartphone. The app will guide your journey with hints, clues, and code words, which you’ll need to gather from different locations.

Since the experience is outdoor, be prepared for the weather—dressing comfortably and appropriately for the season will keep your adventure mood high. The game’s design encourages walking and exploring in the city’s historic areas, so comfortable shoes are a must.

You won’t have a physical guide; instead, the self-guided format gives you freedom to move at your own pace. The smartphone is your main tool—remember, you’ll need a good network connection to download the app and receive updates. Travelers have noted that the app saves photos and videos directly to their phones, adding a personal touch.

End Point

The activity concludes back at the starting square, giving plenty of opportunity for follow-up sightseeing or a relaxed meal. The flexible nature allows you to integrate this game into a larger day of exploring Nantes.

Cost and Value

At $82.61 per group, this activity offers a lot of bang for your buck. For groups of up to 6, it combines entertainment, sightseeing, and puzzle-solving, making it a cost-effective way to spend a couple of hours. Compared to traditional guided tours, the self-guided format provides flexibility and a more personalized pace.

Since no physical guide is involved, you’ll save on the costs associated with guided tours, but you do get a crafted storyline and challenging puzzles that keep everyone engaged. Plus, the photo and video recordings are a nice bonus, giving you tangible memories of your adventure.

However, it’s worth noting that this experience relies heavily on your device and network. If you’re traveling with a group who enjoys puzzles and storytelling, this is definitely a worthwhile option. If your group prefers more physical activity or guided commentary, other options might suit better.

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

This tour is accessible to most travelers, including those with service animals, and it’s convenient due to its proximity to public transportation. It is designed for most travelers, regardless of age or physical fitness, as long as you’re comfortable walking and using your smartphone.

Since you can start anytime during the day, it’s a flexible activity that fits into various itineraries. Booking is straightforward, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance—perfect for last-minute plans or weather-dependent days.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer shared that they “had fun solving mysteries while discovering hidden corners of the city,” and appreciated the themed integration that made them smile at each step. They recommended doing it again, clearly indicating the activity’s engaging and joyful nature. The absence of a physical guide didn’t seem to detract from the experience; instead, the story-driven puzzles and scenic exploration added layers of enjoyment.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This outdoor escape game is excellent for small groups, families, or couples wanting to explore Nantes differently. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy puzzles, storytelling, and city adventures. It’s also a good option if you prefer flexible timing and don’t want a crowded guided tour.

If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates a blend of sightseeing and interactive fun, this activity will be a hit. It’s perfect for a casual afternoon, a birthday celebration, or just a break from traditional sightseeing.

The Sum Up

This Nantes outdoor escape game offers a unique mix of mystery, exploration, and storytelling set against the city’s picturesque streets. Its self-guided format means you can enjoy it at your own pace without the pressure of a scheduled tour, making it ideal for flexible travel plans.

The storyline involving magic and an underground passage adds a whimsical touch that elevates the usual city walk. The puzzles are engaging, and the chance to capture moments on your phone adds a personal touch.

While the reliance on your smartphone and network is a factor, with the proper preparation, this activity offers excellent value. It’s best suited for groups who love puzzles, storytelling, and a bit of adventure while discovering Nantes’ charming corners.

FAQ

Can I start the game at any time?
Yes, you can begin the game on the day and at the time of your choosing, with no prior reservation needed.

How long does the activity last?
The game is designed to take approximately two hours.

Is the activity suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and since it involves walking and puzzle-solving, it’s suitable for most age groups, though children should be comfortable with using smartphones.

Do I need to bring my own smartphone?
Yes, the activity uses your personal device to run the app and record photos and videos.

What if I lose network connection?
The activity requires a 3/4/5G network for optimal functioning. Without it, some features might be limited.

Is there a physical guide?
No, this is a self-guided activity, relying solely on the app and your smartphone.

What locations do I visit?
Starting at Square Élisa-Mercur, you’ll visit various family locations and streets in Nantes’ historic center, gathering clues along the way.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is the price per person or per group?
The listed price is per group of up to 6 people.

How do I receive my game code?
A unique code is sent to your device for each team upon booking, enabling you to start the game.

This outdoor escape game in Nantes combines the thrill of puzzle-solving with the charm of city discovery. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a partner, it’s a creative way to experience Nantes in a memorable, playful manner.