The Escapists

The main pros of the game

• Engaging Gameplay: Players enjoy the strategic and puzzle-solving aspects of planning escapes, which can be rewarding and challenging.
• Unique Crafting System: The ability to combine items into tools for escapes adds depth and encourages experimentation.
• Charming Graphics: The pixel art style is well-received, contributing to a nostalgic and light-hearted atmosphere.
• Variety of Prisons: Each prison presents different challenges and layouts, keeping gameplay fresh and interesting.
• Humor and NPC Interactions: The game includes humorous dialogue and interactions with other prisoners, enhancing the overall experience.
• Replayability: There are multiple ways to escape, encouraging players to revisit the game and try different strategies.

The main cons of the game

• Steep Learning Curve: New players may find the game difficult to learn due to a lack of guidance and the punishing nature of mistakes.
• Repetitive Gameplay: Some players feel that the daily routines can become monotonous over time, leading to a sense of tedium.
• Item Durability Issues: The low durability of crafted items can lead to frustration, as players may have to grind for resources repeatedly.
• Unfair Mechanics: Some users report that guards can be overly punishing, making it difficult to execute plans without getting caught.
• Technical Issues: There are mentions of bugs and glitches that can detract from the gaming experience.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Better Tutorial/Guidance: Players suggest that a more comprehensive tutorial or recipe book would help ease the learning process.
• Saving System Improvements: Users express a desire for a saving system that allows for more flexibility and experimentation without severe penalties.
• Minimap or Additional Information: A minimap or more in-game information could help players navigate and plan escapes more effectively.
• Less RNG Dependence: Some reviews indicate a preference for less reliance on random item generation, which can lead to frustration in progress.
• Customization Options: Players would like more control over game mechanics, such as customizable controls and menu navigation.

Summary

• Overall, The Escapists is appreciated for its unique take on the prison escape genre, but it also faces criticism regarding its difficulty and some gameplay mechanics. The sequel, The Escapists 2, is often recommended for those seeking a more refined experience.

Summary generated on: October 29, 2025