Outdoor escape game | Vikings – The Relic of Odin

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Nantes beyond the usual sightseeing route, the Vikings – The Relic of Odin outdoor escape game might just be your ticket. Offered by Escape The City, this activity combines urban adventure with a Viking-themed story that takes roughly two hours and costs about $17.20 per person. Unlike traditional guided tours, this is a self-guided treasure hunt that uses your smartphone as your digital guide, leading you through Nantes’ streets, historical spots, and hidden corners.

What I find particularly appealing about this experience is how it Turns your city walk into a fun and interactive quest. First, the storyline involving Ragnar Lodbrok trying to recover Odin’s relic adds a layer of excitement and narrative that keeps you engaged. Second, the ability to explore at your own pace and in your own group makes it flexible for many kinds of travelers—from families and friends to team-building groups. A couple of small things to consider: the activity is designed for moderate physical fitness and is best suited for those comfortable walking around with a charged smartphone. Some reviews mention that having multiple phones per team aids gameplay, so if you’re in a bigger group, a bit of coordination helps.

One aspect I especially love is how the game offers a blend of history and puzzle-solving. You’re not just wandering aimlessly but actively investigating clues, deciphering runic alphabets, and interacting with your digital companion. The storyline is well-developed, with a few reviews praising the quality of the puzzles, although some found certain riddles like the one at the basilique quite tough—so be prepared for some brain-teasers. It’s also nice to see that the activity is accessible, with near public transport and service animals allowed.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: At only around $17, this activity offers excellent value, especially considering it’s booked on average 9 days in advance.
• Self-guided with digital storytelling: The game’s use of a chatbot and smartphone app gives you full control over the pace and route.
• Rich with local history and mythology: You’ll get a glimpse of the Viking invasions of Nantes, along with insights into their gods and runic alphabet.
• Interactive and team-oriented: It encourages cooperation, problem-solving, and observation, making it perfect for groups like families or colleagues.
• Good for those with moderate physical fitness: Expect to walk and explore for about two hours.
• Reviews showcase positive experiences: Many users highlight the activity as “sympa” and a good way to rediscover Nantes’ streets in a fun context.

The Experience in Detail

Starting at Place du Bouffay, this outdoor game kicks off with a chat with your digital guide via your smartphone. Once your team has your access code, the adventure begins. The game cleverly integrates storytelling, where you’re helping Ragnar Lodbrok find Odin’s lost relic before Moriarty, Sherlock Holmes’ nemesis, gets his hands on it. As you walk through historic parts of Nantes, you’ll uncover clues that lead you deeper into the Viking tale—and the city’s streets.

The interactive puzzles are designed to be engaging, with some reviews noting that the clues are well-balanced—providing hints to help along the way. One reviewer appreciated that the puzzles are “interesting,” and the clues help you keep moving without too much frustration. However, not all are straightforward: the puzzle involving the basilique was noted as difficult to decipher, and some players missed on-site clues, suggesting the game’s reliance on visual puzzle-solving. The game prompts you to observe your surroundings carefully, which adds a fun element of discovery.

The route takes you through various parts of Nantes, observing local architecture, details, and even some obscure points that many people walking by might miss. As you decipher runic alphabets and interact with your digital companion, you’ll learn about Viking gods and their influence on Nantes, which plasters a layer of educational value onto the fun. The game concludes back at the starting point, making it a neat, round experience.

One thing that stood out in reviews was how this activity is great for team cohesion. A group of young people from an association used it for an “sortie d’intégration,” emphasizing shared discovery, cooperation, and collective problem-solving. This highlights that the game is not only a tourist activity but also useful for team-building or group outings.

Expect to spend about two hours on this activity; the timing is flexible depending on your pace. You’ll need a charged smartphone with internet access (one per team is recommended, though some find having multiple devices helpful), and a notebook and pencil can be useful for note-taking or puzzles. The activity runs every day from noon till late, giving plenty of options to fit into your Nantes schedule.

Who Would Love This?

If you enjoy interactive experiences that combine history, puzzles, and outdoor exploration, this game fits the bill. It’s particularly suited for groups who want to discover Nantes in a dynamic, engaging way and don’t mind walking around city streets. It’s also perfect for families with kids, teambuilding outings, or history buffs interested in Viking lore. The price point makes it accessible, and the self-guided format offers real flexibility.

However, if you prefer structured tours with a guide or dislike using your phone for navigation, you might find this activity less ideal. Also, because some puzzles can be quite challenging (like the basilique clue), it’s best for those ready for some brain teasers.

The Sum Up

Vikings – The Relic of Odin is a clever and entertaining way to see Nantes with fresh eyes. It offers a fun mix of urban exploration, puzzle-solving, and storytelling, all at a very reasonable price. You’ll love how it turns walking through the city into an adventure, uncovering hidden details and learning about Viking legends along the way. It’s especially valuable for groups who enjoy cooperation, discovery, and a bit of challenge.

On the downside, the reliance on smartphones and puzzles might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer guided tours or dislike strenuous walking. But if you appreciate a self-paced, story-driven experience that transforms sightseeing into a lively game, this activity delivers authenticity and a healthy dose of fun.

Overall, Vikings – The Relic of Odin stands out as a unique, affordable, and engaging way to explore Nantes beyond the standard tourist trail. It’s a smart pick for anyone wanting to combine history, mystery, and outdoor adventure in one well-designed package.

FAQ

How long does the activity last?
It takes approximately two hours, but you can go at your own pace, making it flexible for your schedule.

What do I need to participate?
A charged smartphone with internet access and a notebook and pencil are recommended. The activity is designed for moderate physical activity, so be prepared to walk.

Can I participate if I don’t want to be on my phone the entire time?
While the game encourages interaction through your device, some reviews suggest that not everyone needs to be glued to the phone—you can have some players focus on puzzles while others observe.

Is it suitable for groups?
Yes, it’s ideal for families, friends, or team-building groups. You can organize your own team, and group discounts are available.

Are there any age restrictions?
The activity is suitable for most age groups, provided participants are comfortable walking and solving puzzles. No specific age restrictions are mentioned.

What is the starting point for the tour?
It begins at Place du Bouffay in Nantes, and the route ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option for planning.

This Viking-themed outdoor game offers a lively blend of history and adventure that can make your day in Nantes truly memorable. It’s a fantastic way to see a new side of the city, solve intriguing puzzles, and enjoy a bit of friendly competition—all without breaking the bank.