Annecy: Escape game outdoor – the shadow of the sword

Annecy: Escape game outdoor – the shadow of the sword offers a captivating way to explore the stunning old town of Annecy while engaging in a fun, interactive adventure. Priced at $22 per group (up to 4 players), this outdoor escape game lasts approximately 2 hours and is available for 100 days from your purchase date. The game invites you to follow a specially designed storyline about a dangerous sword with evil powers, linking you to 6 centuries of history in Annecy.

Designed for small groups, this activity suits those who enjoy puzzles, history, and scenic sightseeing. While it offers fantastic views and a unique experience, some reviews note that the puzzles are not overly complex, and technical issues like geolocation bugs can occur. This tour combines discovery, adventure, and historical storytelling, making it a lively way to experience Annecy’s highlights.

Key Points

• Price and duration: Only $22 per group for about 2 hours of outdoor fun.
• Location and start: Begins at 6 Quai de la Tournette, in the heart of Annecy’s old town.
• Storyline theme: Investigates the legend of a sword with evil powers that could threaten the city, spanning centuries.
• Main attractions: Includes Annecy Castle, the Palais de l’Île, the Cathedral, and other iconic sites.
• Interactive experience: Uses smartphone sensors for puzzles, riddles, secret passages, and surprises.
• Pacing and flexibility: You can pause and resume the game anytime, making it adaptable to your schedule.
• Group size: Suitable for 1 to 4 players, ideal for friends or small families.
• Language options: Available in French and English; no guide needed, the game is self-guided.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at Quai de la Tournette

The adventure kicks off at 6 Quai de la Tournette, where you’ll receive an access link via email and SMS right after booking. This link allows you to launch the game on your smartphone without needing to download an app. The GPS guidance takes you directly to the starting location, making navigation straightforward.

The game is designed for flexible start times, so you can choose when to begin within the validity period, which extends up to 100 days. The activity is suitable for those comfortable with smartphones and data plans, as it requires charged devices for the duration of the game.

Exploring Annecy’s Iconic Monuments

The game’s route takes you past some of Annecy’s most famous sights. The first stop is the Château d’Annecy, where scenic views and historical architecture set the tone for the adventure. Next, you’ll visit Palais de l’Île, recognized as a symbol of the city and a key puzzle location.

Additional stops include La Porte Sainte Claire, the Annecy Cathedral, and the Mairie, each offering opportunities for sightseeing and puzzle-solving. Along the way, you encounter secret stops that feature brief sightseeing moments and scenic views, enhancing the outdoor experience.

Some stops are designed as short sightseeing breaks (lasting 5 to 10 minutes), giving you chances to observe the city’s architecture and scenery while hunting for clues.

The Storyline: A Sword with Evil Powers

The core plot involves uncovering the whereabouts of a dangerous sword that was offered to the Count of Geneva, believed to possess evil powers that could threaten Annecy. The quest spans centuries, weaving together historical figures and legendary details. As you solve riddles, you piece together clues that lead to the sword’s current location.

This storyline adds a layer of mystery and adventure, making the exploration more engaging. The narrative is designed to immerse you in Annecy’s past, from the 13th to the 19th century, while encouraging observation of unusual details and historical figures.

How the Puzzle Mechanics Work

The game uses smartphone sensors for interaction, offering surprises, riddles, and secret passages. Challenges involve reflection, observation, and puzzle-solving, with some animations and mechanisms triggered digitally. Hints and indices are available if players get stuck, helping keep the pace enjoyable.

Despite the engaging design, some reviews mention that the puzzles are not highly sophisticated and that certain animations may malfunction, which could be frustrating. The interactive storytelling keeps the experience lively and immersive.

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Scenic Views and Sightseeing Along the Route

Throughout the game, you enjoy beautiful views of Annecy’s canals, historic buildings, and the surrounding landscape. The route is designed to guide you past key monuments but also includes secret stops that add an element of surprise.

It’s a great way to see the city at your own pace while engaging actively with its history. The stops at Annecy Castle, the old town hall, and Ile Palace are particularly noteworthy for their scenery and historical significance.

While the route offers scenic sightseeing, some players note that it goes in circles at times, which might be less efficient for those with limited time.

Group Size, Accessibility, and Practical Tips

This activity is best suited for 1 to 4 participants, making it perfect for small groups, families, or friends. It is not suitable for children under 12, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users due to the outdoor nature and walking involved.

To make the most of the experience, ensure your smartphone is charged and has data access. You can pause and restart the game at any point, offering flexibility if you need a break.

The activity ends back at the starting point on Quai de la Tournette, completing a loop through Annecy’s historic core.

Practical Considerations and Customer Support

Once you receive your access link, you can launch the game anytime during the validity period. The GPS guidance ensures easy navigation, even if you’re unfamiliar with the city. Customer support is available by phone if issues arise during the game.

The tour does not include a guide, allowing for a self-paced experience. Cancellation is flexible: you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers peace of mind if your plans change.

Limitations and Areas for Improvement

While the experience offers stunning views and an engaging storyline, some reviews note that the puzzles aren’t particularly complex. The animations for puzzle-solving are sometimes buggy or slow, which could detract from the overall flow.

Plus, the geolocation map can bug in close-up views, making it harder to see exactly where to go at times. These issues might be minor inconveniences but are worth considering if you seek a highly challenging escape game.

Final Thoughts: A Fun and Scenic City Adventure in Annecy

The Annecy outdoor escape game presents a unique way to explore the city’s beautiful old town while engaging with its history and legends. The $22 price makes it an accessible option for small groups looking for a flexible, interactive activity.

This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate scenic sightseeing combined with puzzle-solving and are comfortable using their smartphones. While it may not satisfy those seeking highly complex puzzles or seamless technology, it delivers scenic views, intriguing storytelling, and a lighthearted adventure through Annecy’s streets.

For families with older children, history enthusiasts, or small groups of friends, this activity offers an enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours immersed in Annecy’s charm and stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the escape game take?
The game lasts approximately 2 hours, but you can pause and restart at any time during the 100-day validity period.

Where does the activity start?
It begins at 6 Quai de la Tournette, in Annecy’s old town, with GPS guidance leading you there.

Do I need to download an app?
No, you don’t need to download any app. The access link sent via email and SMS allows you to launch the game directly on your smartphone.

Can I play with fewer than 4 people?
Yes, the game is designed for 1 to 4 players per group.

Is the activity suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 12 years due to the outdoor nature and walking involved.

Are there any language options?
Yes, the game is available in French and English.

What should I bring?
A charged smartphone with data access is essential for participating.

Is there a guide or supervisor?
No, this is a self-guided experience with no guide included.

What if I encounter technical issues?
Support is available by phone if needed, and the instructions include hints and indices to help you progress.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This outdoor escape game in Annecy offers an engaging blend of scenic sightseeing, historical storytelling, and interactive puzzles. With its affordable price and flexible format, it provides a playful way to uncover the city’s treasures while solving mysteries about a legendary sword.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby