Cosplay — aka “Costume Play” or dressing up like your favorite superheroes, comic book characters or manga megastars — attacks the borough in a big way Saturday, April 11. A special session of “Escape from the Walled City” — a game that attracts thousands of cosplayers on the West Coast — will take place simultaneously in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Staten Island.
Each event is about 90 minutes long (including introduction and solution walkthrough). Doors open 60 minutes pre-game. Players who arrive after start time won’t be allowed in — it’s a distraction for others. The inspiration: “
Attack on Titan” is a Japanese manga written and illustrated by Hajime Isayama.
The plot: “Devastated by insatiable man-eating giants called
Titans, the entire human race has retreated to the safety of a single city protected by 164-foot-high walls. But with the appearance of an immense Titan, humanity realizes that its defenses may no longer be enough, and it teeters on the brink of extinction.”
The expert tips: How to succeed at this cosplay without really crying:
1. There is no team size limit for this scenario. Play alone or team up with as many people as you’d like. Note: Teams of 3 to 6 people are recommended for the best game experience.
2. All aspects of the game will be in English. As always, the puzzles require no special skills or knowledge to solve. Knowledge of
Attack on Titan is not necessary for gameplay but will make your experience more fun. So, watch the anime or read the manga.
3. Cosplay is welcome and a great way to immerse yourself “Attack on Titan” story.
4. Movement around the stadium is required, please wear clothing comfortable for movement. Speed is important for escaping, do not bring or wear anything that will slow you down!
5. Functional weapons and sharp props are prohibited. Do not travel to the game with prop weapons exposed. Keep in mind that the public may think your prop is an real weapon.
6. This is a rain or shine event. In more extreme situations, such as natural disasters, check the website and Facebook page for event updates.
7. No animals are allowed into the stadiums. The only exception are service animals wearing identification of service.
8. You can take photos of the clues during the game. BUT please do not upload ANY spoilers to the internet or Social Media or tell other people the answers or puzzles. That is NOT cool.
9. The prize for winning is the priceless moment when you finally find the solution and everything falls into place. In short: You get bragging rights.
10. Failure to escape, however, is nothing to be embarrassed about. Time is short and the mysteries are tough. Don’t worry. If you don’t escape, you will still be allowed to leave the stadium. Keeping you against your will is breaking the law.
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