A new real escape game based on the Cthulhu Mythos has arrived in Shinjuku. I attended the Tokyo performance of SCRAP's latest real escape game, "Escape from the Mountains of Madness."
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/236/G023687/20251029001/
Writer: Morise Ryo | 2025/10/31 10:11 (UTC)
A new real-life escape game from SCRAP, a leading company known for numerous puzzle-based escape games, titled “Escape from the Mountains of Madness,” has launched its Tokyo run on October 9th. The event is scheduled to continue until January 18, 2026, with future performances planned in Osaka and Nagoya.
As suggested by its title, this event is based on the fictional universe of American weird fiction writer H.P. Lovecraft, particularly his 1936 work “At the Mountains of Madness,” and other stories within what is commonly known as the Cthulhu Mythos.
The story “At the Mountains of Madness” depicts an Antarctic expedition conducted by Miskatonic University in 1930–1931. However, the setting for this escape game takes place in October 2025—the present day. Players take on roles as members of the 37th research team and step into a land known to have swallowed countless expeditionaries’ lives—The Mountains of Madness. Amidst one accident after another, players are given only 50 minutes—a time limit under an hour—to solve clues left behind by prior teams, achieve their mission objective, and escape from these deranged mountains.
As someone who is also a Cthulhu Mythos enthusiast, I found this scenario incredibly thrilling. Naturally, I couldn’t resist joining the challenge with two friends. We entered a tent surrounded by malevolent darkness and blizzards, confronting mysteries that determined humanity’s fate—and ultimately, none of us ever returned to walk civilized soil again.
Well, in any case, this article will report on our attempt at this challenging experience.
Official website for the real escape game “Escape from the Mountains of Madness”
From Kabukicho to a Blizzard-Stricken Arctic
Our team arrived at Tokyo Mystery Circus in Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district—the venue hosting this event. This amusement facility spans four floors, from basement level 1 up to the fourth floor, offering escape games year-round—a dream destination for fans of such games. The first floor features a shop selling related merchandise.
Image Gallery No.002 thumbnail / A Cthulhu Mythos-based real escape game arrives in Shinjuku. Joining SCRAP’s new real-life escape game “Escape from the Mountains of Madness” in Tokyo Image Gallery No.003 thumbnail / A Cthulhu Mythos-based real escape game arrives in Shinjuku. Joining SCRAP’s new real-life escape game “Escape from the Mountains of Madness” in Tokyo
The shop on the first floor sells merchandise related to “Escape from the Mountains of Madness.” Image Gallery No.004 thumbnail / A Cthulhu Mythos-based real escape game arrives in Shinjuku. Joining SCRAP’s new real-life escape game “Escape from the Mountains of Madness” in Tokyo
The venue for “Escape from the Mountains of Madness” is located on the fourth floor. Each group can have up to four participants. The game unfolds inside tents lined up within the space, and players remain inside the tent throughout—except when specific events occur. Instructions are delivered via tablets provided within the tent, guiding players through solving puzzles.
Image Gallery No.008 thumbnail / A Cthulhu Mythos-based real escape game arrives in Shinjuku. Joining SCRAP’s new real-life escape game “Escape from the Mountains of Madness” in Tokyo Image Gallery No.007 thumbnail / A Cthulhu Mythos-based real escape game arrives in Shinjuku. Joining SCRAP’s new real-life escape game “Escape from the Mountains of Madness” in Tokyo
Unfortunately, I can’t reveal details about the puzzles themselves, but each one presents a satisfying challenge. Aside from one friend who frequently participates in such events, my two companions and I were all first-time escape game players—leading us to mismanage our time and get stuck early on. Fortunately, hints are provided inside the tent; after specific intervals pass, players are prompted to consult them. This thoughtful design ensures even newcomers can enjoy the full experience.
However, there’s only one chance to solve the final puzzle—and we failed. That said, multiple endings exist: QR codes distributed at the end allow players to check other possible outcomes.
Incidentally, due to my own rather large build (the author), the tent felt quite cramped with just three people inside. From what I observed on-site, escape game fans tend to be young women—so it’s probably not an issue for most groups—but adult male teams might want to keep their gear light and avoid bulky clothing. While no one would likely show up dressed like they’re heading to Antarctica, I’d recommend dressing as lightly as possible—even in winter. It’s best suited for someone who simply wants to try something new on a weekday after work.
The first-floor shop also sells pamphlets containing background materials for the game and interviews with Ayaka Fukamoto, who served as main director, along with two types of stickers—“Escape Success” and “Escape Failure”—and a keychain labeled “Mythical Creature Warning.” These items are available even to those not participating in the game—so Cthulhu Mythos fans should definitely take note.
Hoshino Shobo “At the Mountains of Madness” (Amazon Associate link) Image Gallery No.010 thumbnail / A Cthulhu Mythos-based real escape game arrives in Shinjuku. Joining SCRAP’s new real-life escape game “Escape from the Mountains of Madness” in Tokyo
As mentioned earlier, this game’s world and story are based on H.P. Lovecraft’s novels. All necessary information is provided during gameplay—so no prior preparation is required—but knowing the original works definitely enhances enjoyment. The pamphlet also includes a timeline of the in-game universe and detailed background settings; I recommend checking it after playing. Although “At the Mountains of Madness” serves as the primary source, other stories are also referenced—and to avoid spoilers, we’ll leave those details unmentioned here.
After finishing the game, I spoke with one of the shop staff at the first floor. They noted that regular escape game players and experienced Cthulhu Mythos TRPG gamers tend to notice different subtle clues, which in turn affects how they approach solving puzzles during gameplay. While I couldn’t learn exactly how these differences manifest, I’d like to explore this further with those involved in the future.
Currently, tickets for “Escape from the Mountains of Madness” are available both online and at the venue—but due to frequent sellouts, pre-booking via the website is strongly recommended. As mentioned earlier, performances are scheduled after Tokyo’s run in Osaka and Nagoya, with additional locations under consideration. Those living outside the Kanto region should stay tuned for updates on the official website.
Official website for the real escape game “Escape from the Mountains of Madness”