Discover Nantes while playing! Escape game – The alchemist

Thinking about adding a playful twist to your visit to Nantes? This self-guided urban escape game offers a fun, interactive way to see the city through puzzles and missions. Designed for groups of up to six, it’s a fresh alternative to traditional sightseeing, blending storytelling and exploration into one adventure.

What we love about this experience is its flexibility—you can start anytime between noon and late evening, and the game takes you around the city’s streets guided solely by your smartphone. The story immerses you in the role of an alchemist investigating a witchcraft accusation, which adds a playful narrative layer that can make what might otherwise be a simple walk into a memorable story. However, it’s worth noting that some players have found the puzzles either too straightforward or, conversely, a bit lacking in depth, so it may not satisfy puzzle enthusiasts expecting more complexity.

This experience is well-suited for families, friends, or curious travelers eager to explore Nantes differently. If you enjoy interactive activities, storytelling, and light puzzle-solving, this game could be a delightful addition to your itinerary. But if you’re after historical depth or a traditional guided tour, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Flexible timing: Play any time between midnight and 11:30 p.m.
• Affordable price: Around $23 for a group of up to 6, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
• Story-driven experience: Dive into an engaging alchemist story with a moral choice element.
• Easy to participate: Just download the app, no extra tickets or guides needed.
• City exploration: Discover Nantes’ streets, monuments, and hidden corners in a new way.
• Mixed reviews: Some find it fun and engaging, while others feel the puzzles are underwhelming.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What’s Included and How It Works

The self-guided adventure begins at Place Marc Elder, a central spot in Nantes that’s easy to access via public transportation. Once you start the game, your mobile app (which you will need to download beforehand) guides you through various points of interest using your smartphone. The game lasts approximately two hours, giving enough time for a relaxed but focused stroll through the city.

For just over $23, this activity is affordable for small groups, making it a good value for those who want an interactive experience without a hefty price tag. The fact that the activity is private means only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized and intimate experience.

The Narrative and Puzzles

The game casts you as an alchemist investigating a villager accused of witchcraft. You’ll meet witnesses, gather clues, and solve puzzles to uncover the truth or defend the accused—depending on your choices. It’s a classic morality dilemma wrapped in a playful story, which adds an element of engagement beyond simple sightseeing.

One reviewer described it as a “good way to discover the city” and appreciated the playful questions, noting it as a “super moment.” Conversely, a less enthusiastic traveler felt the story and puzzles were “idiotic,” and that the activity did not reveal any hidden or lesser-known sites, only the main attractions like the Château and Cathedral (which was closed for one of the puzzles). This underscores a key point: if you’re expecting a deep exploration or uncovering obscure corners of Nantes, this might not meet that expectation.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The activity runs every day of the week and is available from noon until late evening. You can start anytime within those hours, providing flexibility for different schedules. The meeting point is centrally located, and the activity ends back at the starting point, so it’s convenient for planning your day.

Travelers with service animals are allowed, and the activity is suitable for most participants, making it accessible for a range of visitors. Since it’s an activity that relies solely on your smartphone, no additional transportation is necessary once you’re at the starting point.

Group Size and Duration

The limitation to 6 participants makes it ideal for small groups, families, or couples. The approximate duration of 2 hours is enough for a leisurely exploration, allowing you to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. If you’re a larger group, you might need to split into multiple sessions or consider other activities.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

The reviews reveal a split perspective. One group called it “genial,” highlighting how much fun they had and how it made discovering Nantes enjoyable. They found the questions engaging and appreciated the smooth assistance when they needed help downloading the app.

On the other hand, some found the story “idiote” with little to no depth, and the puzzles uninteresting. Notably, one reviewer expressed disappointment in not discovering lesser-known sites due to the focus on main attractions, which could suggest the game’s route is somewhat predictable or limited.

Price and Value

At $23.22 per group, the price is quite reasonable, especially considering the private nature of the experience. Compared to traditional guided tours, which can be more expensive and less flexible, this activity offers a DIY approach with a story-driven twist. If you’re looking for a relaxed, interactive way to see the city, it’s a fair deal, though the quality of puzzles and storytelling may vary based on personal taste.

Who Will Love This?

This urban escape game is best suited to families, small groups of friends, and curious travelers who enjoy casual storytelling, light puzzles, and walking around a city. It’s perfect if you’re after a fun, flexible activity that can be tailored to your schedule. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate narrative-driven experiences and want to explore Nantes beyond the typical tourist sights.

However, if you’re expecting a highly challenging puzzle game or a comprehensive historical tour, you might find it lacking. Likewise, those wanting to explore lesser-known parts of Nantes might be disappointed, as the route seems to focus on main attractions.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Download the Coddy app before your scheduled start to avoid delays.
• Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking around central Nantes.
• Bring a fully charged smartphone; the game is entirely app-based.
• Consider starting early or later in the day, depending on your schedule, as hours are flexible.
• Check the weather forecast—it’s an outdoor activity, and you’ll want to stay dry or protected from the sun.
• If you’re traveling with children or less mobile participants, verify accessibility.

Final Thoughts

For a modest price, this self-guided urban game offers a playful way to see Nantes from a different perspective. It’s a fun activity for small groups who want to mix sightseeing with storytelling, especially if they enjoy a bit of light puzzle-solving. The experience’s simplicity and flexibility are major strengths, making it easy to fit into a varied travel itinerary.

However, it’s not a deep cultural or historical dive, so if that’s your priority, you may prefer traditional tours or museum visits. Still, for those seeking an engaging, interactive way to enjoy Nantes’ streets, this game delivers entertainment and a touch of adventure.

The Alchemist escape game can turn a casual stroll into a memorable story, provided expectations are aligned with its playful, straightforward approach.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
It’s designed for groups of up to 6, and most travelers can participate, so children can join if they’re comfortable walking and solving puzzles. Check the difficulty level and ensure everyone is ready for a light adventure.

Do I need to be tech-savvy to play?
Not really. Downloading the app and following instructions is straightforward. Assistance is available if needed, and the app guides you step-by-step through the game.

Can I start this activity at any time?
Yes, you can begin anytime between noon and 11:30 p.m. on your chosen day, offering good flexibility.

How long does the game last?
Approximately 2 hours, making it an ideal activity for a relaxed exploration without taking up your whole day.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers access to the game for your entire group. There are no additional tickets or guides needed.

Is the activity accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most likely, since it’s a walking tour guided by an app, but consider the walking distance and terrain when planning.

What if I have questions during the game?
Support is available; some reviews mention quick responses if you contact the assistance team.

Are the main Nantes attractions included?
Yes, you will see key spots like the Château and Cathedral, but some reviews suggest it doesn’t explore hidden corners or lesser-known sites.

In summary, this urban escape game offers a casual, fun way to discover Nantes, especially suited for groups looking for a story-driven activity at an accessible price. Keep your expectations in check, and you might find it a memorable part of your trip.