How to Choose the Right Escape Room for Your Group Size and Skill Level
Booking an escape room should be exciting — not confusing. But if you’ve never played before (or you’re organising a group with mixed ages and experience), it’s easy to wonder: Which room should we choose?
The good news is that there’s no single “right” answer. The best escape room for your group depends on who you’re playing with, how many people you have, and how much challenge you’re looking for. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose confidently and get the most out of your experience.
Start With Your Group Size
Group size matters more than most people realise. Too few players and the room can feel overwhelming. Too many and it can feel crowded.
Small groups (2–3 players)
Smaller groups work best in rooms designed with fewer puzzles running at once. These games rely more on observation and logic rather than splitting into multiple teams.
If you’re a couple or a trio, look for rooms labelled as suitable for smaller groups — or ask the staff for a recommendation.
Medium groups (4–6 players)
This is the sweet spot for most escape rooms. With 4–6 people, everyone can stay involved without stepping on each other’s toes. You can divide tasks naturally, communicate easily, and keep momentum up.
Large groups (7+ players)
Larger groups are best suited to rooms with multiple parallel puzzles or by splitting into two rooms and competing for the fastest escape time. This works especially well for families, birthday parties, or work groups.
Be Honest About Experience Level
It’s tempting to book the hardest room because it “sounds cool,” but difficulty should match your group’s experience — especially if it’s your first time.
First-timers
If no one in your group has done an escape room before, start with a beginner or medium-difficulty room. You’ll still feel challenged, but you won’t spend half the session stuck on one puzzle.
Mixed experience groups
These are very common — one or two experienced players, plus first-timers. A medium room is usually ideal here, allowing experienced players to guide without taking over.
Experienced players
If your group has escaped multiple rooms before and enjoys a real challenge, higher-difficulty rooms are a great option. Expect more layered puzzles, fewer obvious clues, and a faster pace.
Consider Who You’re Playing With
The best escape room isn’t just about difficulty — it’s also about the people in the room.
Families
Family groups tend to enjoy rooms that focus on exploration, teamwork, and visual clues rather than heavy maths or wordplay. Rooms where kids can actively contribute keep everyone engaged.
Teenagers
Teens love rooms that feel immersive and cinematic. A clear mission, time pressure, and hands-on puzzles work particularly well.
Work groups
For corporate teams, look for rooms that encourage communication and problem-solving under pressure. Medium difficulty is usually ideal — challenging enough to promote teamwork without frustration.
Difficulty Isn’t About Intelligence
One common misconception is that harder escape rooms are “smarter.” In reality, difficulty usually means:
- More puzzles running at once
- Less obvious clue connections
- Fewer hints built into the environment
Choosing an easier room doesn’t mean you’re missing out — it often means you’ll solve more puzzles, feel more accomplished, and have more fun.
When in Doubt, Ask
The easiest way to choose the right room? Ask the people who run them.
At Red Lock Escape Rooms Maroochydore and Red Lock Escape Rooms North Lakes, our team is always happy to recommend the best option based on your group size, ages, and experience. We want you to enjoy the game — not feel overwhelmed or bored.
Book With Confidence
If you’re still unsure, choose a room that sounds fun rather than intimidating. A great theme and a well-matched challenge will always beat a room that’s too hard or too easy.
Ready to lock in your experience?
Book your escape room online here and let the adventure begin.
