Ephemeris of the Mind (Game Review) Escape Academy
Time to read: 2 min read
Game Cover
If an escape from the traditional path piques your interest... climb aboard.
Platforms played on: PC, Xbox Series X
Review
Both my girlfriend and I love puzzles and this game is essentially a series of virtual escape rooms. The story takes place in the mysterious Escape Academy and as new recruits in the school, the two protagonists must progress through a series of puzzle rooms.
Escape room
While this game can be played alone, it’s much more fun with a partner. In fact, this was one of the most fun couch co-op games I’ve played in a while. Playing co-op is also helpful in that your partner can hold up a puzzle key while you try to solve the puzzle. The level designs are creative and few puzzles feel repetitive. The game also has a quirky sense of humour which is fun. The game is an indie title and it shows through the clunky controls, basic graphics, and unintuitive control scheme (I kept accidentally pressing the Hint button). The shortfalls are not major dealbreakers, however. I would also recommend each player having a pen and something to write on in order to better solve the puzzles.
Playing co-op being helpful in one of the DLC levels
Conclusion
A fun co-op puzzle game.
Overall rating: 7.9
DLC Reviews
There are two DLCs and both DLCs are well worth the money due to the amount of content being added (5 new levels each).
Escape From Anti-Escape Island
The cast of Escape Academy are going on vacation after the events of the main game, but the trip quickly turns into trouble in paradise as they find themselves stuck on Anti-Escape Island. The puzzles are still fun but feel a bit more tedious, especially given the slow movement speed of the characters. Overall though, it's still a fun experience.
Overall rating: 7.5
Escape From the Past
The players assume the role of a young Solange (Mara Junot) and Eel (Kayleigh McKee) as they try to uncover the mystery of who is trying to murder the current Headmaster. The levels are pretty creative and I like how there is a level where you compete directly against your partner.