Un Crime presque Parfait: Cluedo-style escape game at Lock Academy

What if Colonel Mustard and the Candlestick weren't confined to your Cluedo memories? In the mysterious Paris of Lock Academy, a drama unfolded last night: John Doyle, the dean of the institution, has been murdered. Your mission, should you decide to accept it: enter the deceased's office, examine the clues, discover the motive, the murder weapon... and unmask the culprit in less than an hour. Welcome to Un Crime presque Parfait, the life-size Cluedoescape game for immersive investigation fans in Paris.

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An immersive British universe

What sets this experience apart is first and foremost its sobritish universe: leather club chairs, a desk lamp with a lampshade, antique knick-knacks and checked curtains make up the hushed décor of this dean's office, designed as an almost cinematic crime scene. But it's not just a setting: theescape game operates according to a non-linear logic, where clues gathered early in the game can prove useful much later. No padlocks to pick, but integrated mechanisms, advanced interactions between objects and clues, and a carefully crafted narrative that evolves with video or written messages from Professor Lock.

In Paris, this kind ofescape game with a "police investigation" feel is not uncommon - but Lock Academy has elevated it to an art form. Based in the 1ᵉʳ arrondissement (Châtelet) and rue Sébastopol (2ᵉ), the structure offers several popular scenarios (such as L.A. Confidential, Le Casse du Siècle or Très Cher Lock) all centered on the spirit of investigation and featuring "movie studio" sets. With Un Crime presque Parfait, Lock Academy has created an emblematic room: its best-seller, accessible to 2 to 5 players, often cited as the ideal introduction to the world of investigative escape games in Paris.

A scenario for detectives... but not for everyone

If you're a detective at heart, like to cross-reference clues, assemble evidence, handle objects with subtlety and think as a team, this scenario is for you. It's accessible from the age of 14 on its own (and from 9 accompanied), making it ideal for outings with friends, family or as part of a team-building program. Beginners will find it a stimulating entry point without being totally lost, while more experienced players will appreciate the elegance of the scenario and the fluidity of the progression.

On the other hand, if you're looking for an experience with a strong focus on adrenalin, jumpscares or spectacular staging (action/horror type), this room may seem too "soft" or too "laid-back" in its approach. Those who prefer purely logical and linear puzzles, with no digging, may be frustrated by the mix of interaction and reflection on offer here. Finally, if your group is very young (under 9), the complexity or narrative density may discourage the little ones.

Trailer for the escape game Un Crime presque Parfait at Lock academy :

In an escape game like Un Crime presque Parfait, you have a limited amount of time - typically 60 minutes - to complete your mission. You don't have to force the elements of the setting, but interact according to the clues, objects and mechanisms provided. Communication between players is essential: share your discoveries, cross-check your hypotheses. If you're really stuck, the game master will sometimes give you clues. The aim is not just to get out, but to solve the plot - find the weapon, the motive and the culprit - before the time runs out. Respect the setting, don't cheat, follow the game master's instructions: these are the unspoken (and explicit) rules of a successful escape game. Ready to investigate?

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