Clue Escape: The Midnight Hotel - Instruction Manual

1. About Clue Escape: The Midnight Hotel

Clue Escape: The Midnight Hotel is a cooperative escape room board game designed for 1-6 players, ages 10 and up, with an average playtime of 90 minutes. This game continues the classic Clue narrative, inviting players to a memorial at The Midnight Hotel following Black's murder. The objective is to deduce who attempted to steal Black's blackmail files, where the files are stored, and the password required to access them.

Players will work together to solve puzzles, unlock new areas of the hotel, and uncover clues. The game features a dynamic 3D board that expands as the mystery unfolds, providing an immersive, single-play experience.

Front view of the Clue Escape: The Midnight Hotel game box, showcasing the title and key game details.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Small parts may be generated. Not for children under 3 years.

Please ensure all small game components are kept out of reach of young children to prevent choking hazards.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present before beginning play:

• 6 Plastic Pawns
• 7 Gameboards
• 109 Cards
• 3 Secret Envelopes
• Game Guide (this manual)

An overview of the game components, including pawns, gameboards, cards, and envelopes.

The game box with its internal trays and components, showing how they are organized.

4. Setup

Setting up Clue Escape: The Midnight Hotel is designed to be quick, allowing players to begin the mystery promptly. Follow these general steps:

1. Unpack all game components from the box.
2. Place the initial gameboard sections as indicated in the game guide to form the starting area of The Midnight Hotel.
3. Distribute the plastic pawns to each player.
4. Separate the various card decks (e.g., clue cards, puzzle cards, item cards) as instructed by the game guide.
5. Place the secret envelopes aside, as these will be used later in the game for the final solution.
6. Ensure all players have access to the game guide for hints and solutions if needed during play.

A view of the game board and various cards laid out during the initial setup phase.

5. Operating Instructions (Gameplay)

Clue Escape: The Midnight Hotel is a cooperative game where players work together to solve the central mystery. The gameplay revolves around exploring the hotel, solving puzzles, and collecting clues.

5.1 Game Progression

• Movement: Players move their pawns across the gameboard, which represents the rooms and areas of The Midnight Hotel.
• Puzzle Solving: As players explore, they will encounter various puzzles. Solving these puzzles is crucial for advancing the game and unlocking new information.
• Board Expansion: The gameboard is dynamic. Successfully solving puzzles or progressing through the narrative will often lead to new gameboard sections being added, revealing more of the hotel and new challenges.
• Clue Collection: Throughout the game, players will collect clue cards and evidence. These clues are vital for the final deduction.
• Cooperation: Communication and teamwork are key. Players must collaborate to share information, discuss strategies, and solve puzzles together.

5.2 The Mystery

The ultimate goal is to deduce three key pieces of information:

1. WHO tried to steal the blackmail files.
2. WHERE the blackmail files are stored.
3. WHAT is the password to open the files.

Once players believe they have enough information, they will use the collected clues to make a final accusation and win the game. The game is designed for a single-play experience, meaning the mystery has one solution.

A player's hand moving a pawn across a section of the game board.

Two clue cards being held, displaying visual puzzle elements and text clues.

The 'SOLVE' envelope, which contains the final solution to the mystery, being opened.

Players gathered around the game board, actively participating and discussing clues.

6. Maintenance

Proper care will ensure the longevity of your game components:

• Storage: Store all game components in their original box in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Cleaning: If components become dirty, gently wipe them with a dry, soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or liquids, as these may damage the printed surfaces.
• Handling: Handle cards and gameboard pieces with clean, dry hands to prevent smudges and wear.
• Re-packaging: After playing, carefully sort and return all components to their designated places within the box to prevent loss or damage.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter difficulties during gameplay, consider the following:

• Stuck on a Puzzle: The game guide includes a dedicated section for hints and solutions. Refer to this section if your group is unable to progress. Use hints sparingly to maintain the challenge.
• Missing Components: Double-check the "Package Contents" section and thoroughly search the box and play area. If a component is genuinely missing upon initial unboxing, contact Hasbro Gaming customer support.
• Difficulty Level: This game has a difficulty rating of 3 out of 5. If playing with younger or less experienced players, encourage open communication and collaborative problem-solving.
• Replayability: As a "one-time solve" game, the core mystery is designed to be solved once. While the physical components can be reused, the puzzle solutions will be known after the first play.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty, replacement parts, or customer support, please visit the official Hasbro Gaming website or contact their customer service department. Contact details are typically found on the product packaging or on the brand's official website.

You can find more information about Hasbro Gaming products at their official store: Hasbro Gaming Store.