Cluebox: Schrödinger’s Cat is an escape room in a box from the creative minds at Germany-based iDventure. They have released many puzzle boxes over the last eight years, with their most recent being an exciting evolution of the ClueBox series, CluePuzzle.
The popularity of puzzle boxes has surged over the years and you only need to look at some of the recent Kickstarter campaigns to see just how much demand there is. Witnessing the success on Kickstarter, I was keen to try one out!
What you need: A pencil and paper. An internet-connected device, for hints only.
Players: 1-2 // Age: 14+ // Playtime: 45-60mins
First impressions
I will begin with a confession: I haven’t played a puzzle box before. The buzz around iDventure’s Cluebox series hasn’t escaped me, but this is the first time I have got to play one of their games. Schrödinger’s Cat is an ideal introduction to the Cluebox series for beginners. Its gameplay is slightly shorter than some of iDventures other offerings which is why they recommended it as the best place to start.
The Cluebox arrives in steam-punk-style packaging with cogs on top and a cat face made of cogs on the back; it looks very cool. It is lightweight and easy to lift out of the packaging. The box is constructed from high-quality pieces of birch wood that have been laser cut and assembled; there are 52 individual parts. I wouldn’t know where to start building something like this, so props to the team who have done a great job!
Note: this game is also available as a Megabox. This is a larger version that is roughly twice the size of the standard Cluebox games.
Story
“Schrödinger’s Cat is a thought experiment by the Austrian physicist Erwin Schrödinger which illustrates the problems of quantum mechanics in everyday objects. In this experiment, a cat and some poison are locked in a closed box. Quantum mechanics says that after a while the cat will be both dead and alive. Unfortunately, Schrödinger completely forgot the cat because of his busy daily routine.
We are sure the cat is alive and you have to save it!” – iDventure
Gameplay
After an initial moment of confusion where I had no idea how to start, I checked the various sides of the box and a starting point made itself known. On the different sides, there are mysterious keyholes, strange icons and some gears that move (and some that don’t). It is important to pay close attention to every detail on the box; you never know what piece of information might lead to a breakthrough.
I can’t say much without spoiling the gameplay experience itself, but I will say that my playthrough was full of ‘ah-ha’ moments that felt so rewarding. I can understand how these games become addictive! Everything you need to complete the game is either on or within the box. No outside knowledge or internet use is required, unless you need a hint.
Once you have solved all stages of the box, you will gain access to a hidden compartment at the centre. This contains a small surprise that can be replaced with a special gift, money, or a note if you want to gift the box to someone else. Then all you need to do is follow the instructions to reset it. iDventure recently shared that one of their boxes was used for a marriage proposal, although it is perfect for other occasions too.
Verdict
Cluebox: Schrödinger’s Cat
Summary
Cluebox: Schrödinger’s Cat was a fun and challenging introduction to the world of puzzle boxes that I didn’t want to end. I marvelled at how the box was constructed and revelled in the ‘ah-ha’ moments as I solved the puzzles. Being able to personalise it with a gift makes it extra special, along with the fact that it can be reset and passed on over and over.
If you haven’t played one of these puzzle boxes before and would like to try one, I would recommend this as a great starting point.
About iDventure
As well as their Clueboxes, iDventure offer a series of detective and escape games. You can find more information about these on their website.
Disclaimer: iDventure kindly provided me with a review copy of this game in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences the content of my review.
