Level 99 is a new social gaming playground and recreation center in Tysons Corner Mall with puzzles that challenge both the mind and the body. The center has been receiving widespread attention due to its new locations in Tysons, Rhode Island and an upcoming location in Disney Springs.
Walking into the crowded check-in area of Level 99, I quickly noticed the futuristic feel of the place. With the dark ambience, dimly lit neon lights and the sleek check-in machines, it felt as if I had been transported to another universe.
When I was finally able to get past the check-in area and into the activities zone, I was overwhelmed by the numerous rooms scattered around the almost warehouse-like space. The playground had over 50 rooms, ranging from 40 to 70 feet in length.
To enter each room, players have to tap their provided wristband on a special sensor and wait to see their codename pop up on a screen. This same action would have to be repeated with one to five other people to be able to finally open the door.
When I walked into my first room, I was very confused about what to do. Players are not given instructions on how to play; rather, they must figure out the rules and purpose of the game through trial and error within three minutes.
If you are unable to figure out the rules of the game, which is the position I found myself in several times, there are clues on the screen to help players guide them in the right direction.
I personally believe that not looking at the clues before playing the game is more enjoyable, as players are encouraged to collaborate with their friends to figure out the rules together. In fact, teamwork is required in all the rooms since rooms will only open if players find one to five other people.
With each room having different themes and backstories, I found the rooms and rules to be both uniquely constructed and fun to figure out. The themes included running on a record player, walking the plank between two imaginary ships, escaping a crashing spaceship, creating passwords to secure a database, swinging across a room on a rope without touching the ground, outsmarting an AI robot and so much more. Each of these rooms were wonderfully made, and I felt as if I was really stepping into the scene of each theme when walking into the rooms.
One aspect I did not particularly enjoy was the high prices. Ticket prices are based on how long you plan to stay along with the day of the week you decide to go. I bought a two-hour pass for a weekday, which ended up being $29.99. Unfortunately, this price increases by $10 on weekends and Fridays after 5 p.m. and another $10 and $20 increase for the four-hour and all day passes, respectively.
Apart from this one downside, all of the puzzles that I played were overall very unique and encouraged me to think outside of the box. I would highly recommend Level 99 to anyone looking for a good challenge to attempt with friends.
