How to host an online escape room for remote teams

Bringing a remote team together can be difficult when everyone works in a different place. An online escape room gives people a shared problem to solve and a reason to talk beyond their usual meetings. A little preparation helps the game feel relaxed, inclusive and fun.

Choose a game that fits your group

Start with the people, not the puzzle. Consider their interests, experience and available time. A mystery may suit a group that enjoys detective stories, while a lighter adventure can be a better introduction for first-time players. Check the game description for its requirements and recommended players before inviting everyone.

Large groups may have more fun in smaller teams, so everyone has room to contribute. For help deciding, read our guide to the best team size for an online escape room.

Send a simple invitation

Share the date, time and time zone, the expected duration and the link or instructions participants need to join. Explain whether they should use a computer and headphones, and leave a few minutes at the start for technical checks. If people are joining from different locations, make sure the chosen time works for them.

Make communication easy

Set up a voice or video call alongside the game. Before starting, agree on a few simple habits: describe clues out loud, say where you found them and give others time to speak. A shared note or a designated note-taker can help the team keep track of codes, unanswered questions and ideas.

Invite quieter players to share observations without putting them on the spot. People notice different things, and an unexpected detail can be just as valuable as a confident theory.

Keep the game moving without rushing

If the team gets stuck, recap what you know and what you have already tried. Split up to inspect different areas, then regroup and compare notes. Use the game's hints when you need them: the aim is to enjoy solving the mystery together, not to struggle in silence.

Leave time for a debrief

After the game, ask everyone about a favorite discovery, a surprising solution or a moment when the team worked well together. Keep it informal. The conversation can be as memorable as the escape itself.

Ready to plan your session? Explore our online escape rooms and choose an adventure for your team. For more ideas on sharing clues, see our puzzle-solving strategies.