District East Games
A Puzzle Enthusiast's Journey
Once upon a time, nestled within the bustling halls of a Dutch insurance company, a tradition was born. Year after year, since the dawn of 2018, a brain-bending puzzle book emerged, challenging minds and sparking the thrill of solving mysteries. Me, a dedicated puzzle enthusiast, eagerly immersed myself in the enigmatic pages of these annual challenges, eagerly participating in 2018, 2019, and 2020. In the fateful year of 2020, our team's persistence and passion paid off as we emerged victorious, claiming the title of puzzle champions. Energized by this triumph, I yearned to delve deeper into the world of puzzle creation. With determination, I joined the elite cadre of puzzle creators, contributing the keen insights and inventive spirit to craft the challenges of 2021, 2022, and 2023.
Embracing Innovation in Troubled Times
As the world grappled with the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic, a quiet revolution was stirring. Across the virtual landscape, small companies sprouted, offering solace and entertainment in the form of online escape rooms. Inspired by this burgeoning trend and fueled by my own love for puzzles, I embarked on a bold venture: to create not one, but three free online escape rooms as part of the beloved puzzle book tradition. Thus, Bunker 92, Opa's Avontuur, and Moonbase 42 were born, each a testament to my creativity and dedication.
Setting the Escape Rooms Apart
What sets our escape rooms apart is not just their price tag—free for all to enjoy—but the immersive experience they offer. Dissatisfied with the flat, uninspired layouts of many online escape rooms, I sought to transport players into rich, three-dimensional environments, where every corner held a clue and every shadow hid a secret. Unlike traditional escape rooms, there are no time limits here, no pressure to rush through the puzzles. Instead, players were encouraged to savor each challenge, to revel in the joy of discovery at their own pace.
Navigating the Creative Process
The journey from conception to creation was not without its twists and turns. Initially, I toyed with the idea of using real-life 360-degree images to build the escape rooms, but soon found the process cumbersome and the results lacking. Undeterred, I turned to the world of game development, discovering the versatile tool of Unity. With Unity's support, I brought my visions to life, crafting intricate environments and interactive puzzles that pushed the boundaries of traditional escape room design.
Roots and Inspiration: District East Games
And why "District East Games"? Well, it's more than just a name. It's a homage to my roots, to the village where I grew up — Oisterwijk. Translating to "East District" in English, Oisterwijk holds a special place in my heart, serving as the inspiration behind my creative endeavors. Thus, District East Games was born, a tribute to the village that shaped my childhood and fueled my imagination.