Imagine being thrust into the heart-pounding world of Squid Game, where every move could determine your fate. Now, New York City is offering fans the chance to experience the hit Netflix series like never before. Squid Game: The Experience brings the unforgettable games of the show right to the streets of Manhattan. Step inside the game and see if you have what it takes to survive because in this real-life version, only the cleverest will make it to the finish line. The Beacon is up for the challenge. Are you ready to play?
The Format: Five Games of Life or… Maybe Just Embarrassment
The experience consists of five different games where you and 23 other participants compete as a group. The group is divided into smaller teams for each game and players face elimination after every round, much like the show itself. It’s intense, it’s exhilarating, and for many, it’s also terrifying.
Here’s a breakdown of the five games you’ll experience in Squid Game: The Experience in NYC
Game 1: The Glass Bridge
The first game sets the tone for what’s to come, The Glass Bridge. Here, you’re tasked with crossing a bridge of glass panels. Four players step up at a time, and you’ll be shown a pattern of safe glass panels for only a few seconds. After that, it’s up to you to remember which glass is safe to step on. Step on the wrong one, and you’re out (though, thankfully you don’t actually fall to your death like in the show). Still, the pressure is real, and the ticking clock only adds to the nerves.
“I didn’t know this was gonna be the first game. And I was so nervous, so I was the first one to be out. If your memory is not good like mine…you’ll end up like me, ha. I’m just kidding,” says Hana, a game participant.
Game 2: The Marble Game
Next up is the Marble Game. Players are divided into groups of four and must choose a shape and land marbles inside. Seemingly simple, but don’t let that fool you! This game tests your hand-eye coordination and focus.
Game 3: Warships
The Warships Game is one of the most strategic games of the entire experience. Players are divided into two teams: pink and green. Each team enters a different room, and inside, there are four warships and a big screen. The goal is simple—sink the enemy team’s ships. But the catch is, you can’t see where the other team’s warships are located.
“I thought we’d win, but we got wiped out. It’s definitely more about strategy than I expected,” says Alex, another game participant.
Game 4: Red Light, Green Light
The fourth game is….Ah, Red Light, Green Light. The classic game that will have you second-guessing every move. Players line up and must race toward the finish line when the doll says “Green Light.” But when it’s “Red Light,” you’d better freeze or risk elimination.
“Oh my God, the doll looks exactly like in the show. I froze when she turned around! This is probably the scariest one out of every game,” shares Victoria, another game participant.
Game 5: Game Over?
The final game is a mystery. It’s a surprise, designed to test everything you’ve learned so far. Without giving too much away, let’s just say this twist will keep you on your toes, especially if you’re leading the pack. Want to know more? You’ll have to get your tickets and find out for yourself!