This entertainment activity combines the immersive problem-solving of escape rooms with the thematic elements of zombie horror. Participants are typically confined to a room or series of rooms and must work together to solve puzzles, find clues, and ultimately “escape” before time runs out, all while contending with the simulated threat of zombies or a zombie-related scenario. A common example involves participants searching for an antidote to a zombie virus while avoiding actors portraying infected individuals.
The appeal of this activity lies in its blend of intellectual challenge and adrenaline-pumping excitement. It fosters teamwork, communication, and critical thinking skills under pressure. Furthermore, the incorporation of a popular horror trope, like the undead, provides a heightened sense of realism and urgency, intensifying the experience. While the exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, the popularity of escape rooms, coupled with the enduring fascination with zombie narratives in popular culture, likely contributed to its emergence as a distinct form of entertainment.