Locked Away
Programming language: C#
Game engine: Unity
Game genre: Puzzle
Duration of development: 2 months
Year of development: 2024
Developers: Ann Bernevega, Veera Valli,
Neea Säilä, Veera Mäkelä, Shi Boxu
"You've been kidnapped and have only five minutes to solve all the puzzles and escape. Are you up for the challenge?"
Overview
"Locked Away" is an escape room-style game created by a team of five people. Developed as part of the Workshop course at Kajaani University of Applied Sciences, the game’s theme, genre, and all other aspects were chosen freely by the team.
Set in a dark, old basement, the game combines a low-resolution vintage style with intense, time-based gameplay. You’ll need to think fast, explore thoroughly, and use your problem-solving skills to escape before the 5-minute timer runs out.
Gameplay Features
-
Simple, Intuitive Controls:
-
Press [F] to pick up, drop, or interact with objects.
-
Use the mouse to move and manipulate items to uncover clues.
-
-
Fast-Paced Puzzle Solving:
The game is packed with a variety of puzzles, from logic challenges to hands-on object interactions, all designed to keep you on your toes. -
The Clock is Ticking:
You only have 5 minutes to piece everything together and make your escape. Every second counts.
Story and Setting
You wake up in a dark, eerie basement with no memory of how you got there. You’re playing as a kidnapped child, trapped and surrounded by puzzles left behind by your captor. The only way out is to solve them all before the clock runs out.
The setting feels oppressive and daunting, with dim lighting and creaky, vintage furniture adding to the tension. Each clue you find brings you one step closer to freedom—or failure.
Visuals and Style
-
Retro Look:
The game uses low-resolution vintage graphics to create a nostalgic yet unsettling vibe. -
Atmosphere:
The visuals and sound work together to create a dark, suspenseful environment that keeps you on edge. -
Sound Design:
Minimalist but haunting sound effects pull you deeper into the unsettling world, heightening the urgency of your escape.
Who is This Game For?
If you love the thrill of escape rooms or solving puzzles under pressure, this game is for you. The intense atmosphere and challenging puzzles are sure to captivate enthusiasts of all ages.
-
Recommended Age: 6+
Note: The dark themes and suspenseful atmosphere may not be suitable for very young children.
How Was It Made?
-
Technology: Built with Unity, ensuring smooth gameplay and polished visuals for PC.
-
Future Plans: The team is working on adding VR support, so you can fully immerse yourself in the escape room experience.