The Escapists
OpenCritic
Fair
IGDB
OpenCritic Score
Score Distribution
"The Escapists holds the methodical tedium of a prison life simulator with some escape mechanics built in, rather than a thrilling game in which you plan your escape. More focus on teaching the intricacies of the mechanics in-game would have done wonders for The Escapists and actually hatching and carrying out a master plan for escaping confinement, because at its core The Escapists is a thrilling concept. Instead we get stuck going through the motions like it's The Sims: Prison Life as we realize we're two months into our sentence and no closer to being on the other side of those bars than the day we got thrown into the joint. Time to hit the showers, boys!"
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About The Escapists
The Escapists is a puzzle-heavy simulator where you plan and execute prison breaks. Developed by Mouldy Toof Studios and published by Team17, it launched in 2015 with a focus on light-hearted, tactical gameplay. Players take on the role of inmates plotting escapes using scavenged tools, distractions, and stealth. The game spans multiple prison settings, each with unique layouts and security systems. Its charm comes from the absurdity of prison life details, like bribing guards with snacks or using a toothpick to pick locks. The goal is simple: avoid detection while solving environmental puzzles to freedom.
Gameplay
Progress revolves around gathering items in a turn-based system. Each move affects guards’ patrols, so timing is key. You’ll craft tools like fake IDs, forge keys, and set up distractions using in-game currency. If caught, you reset to the last checkpoint, forcing replays with adjusted strategies. Sessions often involve trial-and-error loops, testing routes to avoid patrols or alarms. The game’s simplicity makes it accessible, but the 20% completion rate suggests many give up after partial progress. Playtime averages 16 hours, though 55% of players finish under 25 hours. Controls are basic, with a focus on item management and spatial puzzles.
What Players Think
The Escapists holds a 62.5/100 IGDB score from 99 ratings. Community vibes are mixed: 30% Frustrated, 25% Amused, 20% Annoyed, and 15% Satisfied. A review snippet calls it “a frustrating grind with repetitive mechanics,” while another praises “the satisfaction of a perfectly timed escape.” The 33 achievements include milestones like escaping all prisons. Only 20% of players complete it, with 70% finishing under 25 hours. Despite this, 40% return to replay for better strategies. The game’s $19.99 price point keeps it niche, but its bite-sized challenges attract casual puzzle fans.
PlayPile's Take
The Escapists is a quick, low-effort challenge for players who enjoy tactical puzzles and don’t mind repetition. Its $19.99 price makes it a safe bet for those with spare time, but the 20% completion rate and 30% Frustrated community mood suggest it’s not for everyone. The 33 achievements add replayability, but many find the difficulty curve steep for the content provided. If you’re looking for a casual escape (pun intended) from deeper RPGs, this works. Just don’t expect a masterpiece.
Game Modes
Single player
IGDB Rating
62.6
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