RATING: 6 Keys
Put down the controller, leave that cell phone at home and jump through the screen into a real-life video game full of excitement, thrills, competition and absolutely addictive FUN.
First and foremost it’s important to stress that Level99 is not an escape game, nor does it aim to be. Inside, the venue is home to a massive number of score-based interactives – sixty-three in total. Most of them are completely scalable to any group size ranging from two to six people, meaning challenges are ‘smart‘ enough to become more difficult as the player count increases. All but one single challenge within Level99’s playable area – a space they call the Arena – require a firm minimum of two participants. (The sole outlier is only playable alone.)
Prior to arrival, all players must first set up a free account on the official Level99 website. This account powers the entire Level99 experience, tracking completed challenges, scores, earned badges, rewards and much more. Of note, this uniform account is fully compatible at any Level99 location. (Upon completion of each visit, players will also receive a detailed email recap of their day’s accomplishments!)
Part of creating an account will involve establishing a two word player name. This cannot be edited during sign up, but a wide array of customization options are freely available all once inside the Arena. In fact, each Challenge Room’s start screen has an option to edit your player name, and every one of them comes equipped with its own unique list of first and second words that can be paired in any order (or at random.) There’s no limit to how many times a player name can be changed, so keep switching until you find the combination that best suits your personality! After our first visit, the EA team settled on “Gullible Dracula” and “Mythical Ferret.”
A visit to the Level99 Arena is fast paced from start to finish. To save time, it’s also advised to review and sign waivers online in advance to better streamline the check-in process.
Upon arrival, all players are issued a complementary Veloband. This temporary RFID bracelet becomes the key to unlocking all of the fun to be had within the Arena. Scanning an active Veloband at any challenge will activate it, while also granting players access to their personal account, stats and customization options. A limited edition reusable and adjustable pink Veloband is available to guests who opt for the Premium Pass Upgrade when booking their ticket. Another permanent Veloband in black can be redeemed as a reward for cashing in earned Fragments (more on that later.)
We invite you to treat this massive review more as an active guide – and even use it as a helpful point of reference during your own Level99 experiences. Despite being heavily tech-driven, Level99 surprisingly does not have an official mobile app or ‘park map’. Our completely spoiler free outline of each available challenge could help to greatly maximize your limited playtime once in the Arena.
As always, we invite you to click any thumbnail to view each image in its full size, high resolution quality.
Level99 at Disney Springs operates with reservation-based timed entry ticketing for specific play durations. 1.5 hours of game time will start at $30 per person, while 2.5 hours of play costs just $10 more ($40.) Prices can be a bit higher on weekends or peak holiday seasons.
An optional Premium Pass Upgrade is also available at the time of check-out. This additional experience on top of a standard player ticket also includes expedited entry at check-in, the previously mentioned limited edition premium adjustable and reusable pink Veloband, 10% off all merchandise purchases and an exclusive pin as a special gift.
Currently, the Disney Springs venue is not offering an all-day ticket option, although the prior existing three Level99 locations in Natick, Massachusetts, Providence, Rhode Island and Tysons Corner, Virginia do. We’re hopeful to see this eventually become an option in Florida once the combination of opening madness and summer crowds pass, but it’s a bit to early to have intel on that quite yet.
None of the four different Level99 locations around the country currently offer any sort of annual pass option.
Within the Level99 Arena, there are three distinct ways to play: Challenge Rooms, Duels and Hunt Art. We’ll discuss each within their own clearly labeled sections, puzzle by puzzle and task by task.
Throughout this review we’ve put extra effort into not only avoiding spoilers, but also purposefully making no mention of any challenge’s gameplay mechanics. A very big part of the Level99 experience is figuring out what each game expects of you, and for that reason we also won’t be offering any hints within this review. (That being said, each challenge’s start screen does offer the ability to view tips in advance should you choose to do so.)
Within Level99’s two story Arena are an absurd amount of dramatically different Challenge Rooms. In total, there are fifty-six completely unique game rooms available, each with a playtime ranging anywhere between 1-4 minutes. Similar to the nearby theme parks of Walt Disney World, where each attraction exists within a storyworld connected land, all of Level99’s Challenge Rooms can be found clustered into theme zones. The venue’s entry-level first floor is home to seven of those themes:
The tribe has called on you to join them. But first, you must prove yourself worthy.
Tropical beaches and volatile volcanoes set the stage for Island’s two distinct skill-based Challenge Rooms. Tribal hopefuls will compete for their worth under glowing tiki masks and inside stone-temple themed spaces competing in challenges that require skill and some physical ability.
Bash
Hidden behind a massive, angry tribal mask lies Bash. This Challenge Room combines skill accuracy and skill timing if islanders hope to appease the local volcano gods.
Bash is a challenge that almost any player can comfortably tackle, without any need for physical strength or agility. It also does not utilize heavy logic processing. It’s important to note, however, that Bash will require its would-be sacrifices to remain on their knees at all times on its heavily padded floor.
Shrine
Inside the stone and bamboo adorned temple, brave islanders will uncover Shrine. This Challenge Room tests the worthiness of tribes with a task that calls for both skill dexterity and physical balance.
At first glance, Shrine might frustrate followers of the tiki gods, but clever teamwork could provide ingenious work-arounds. Although this Challenge Room does put an emphasis on physical balance, competing natives will take on the task with both feet firmly planted on the floor at all times.
Welcome, one and all, to the greatest show on Earth!
Enter a circus-themed world of daring feats and acts of pure wonder. The two unique Challenge Rooms taking the stage in the Magician theme zone require mental prowess and skill… oh, and a little bit of magic, of course.
Assistant
Within the illusionist’s sideshow wagon is Assistant, a Challenge Room that fortells of a need for mental communication mixed with a touch of mental mystery. Although the magician himself may be a mind-reader, his helpers are anything but.
Would-be assistants must embrace clear communication while describing objects that may be better managed with a little bit of telepathy. A tall sword cabinet trick dominates the the center of the room, while framed posters of famous magicians from years past decorate the ornate walls. Applicants for the role of Assistant can be of all types, as this challenge room requires no physical strength, endurance or hand-eye coordination.
Sideshow
Under the lavishly trimmed big top tent is where Sideshow has been set up. Performers in this Challenge Room are sure to wow audiences with their combined skill accuracy and skill timing.
Although they’re not quite ready for knives, stars of this Sideshow will take aim at the wheel of death with something a bit safer. So hurry, hurry, step right up, because this Sideshow is fit for all, with no acts of strength, balance or wits required to earn that standing ovation.
This pixel perfect platformer is too good not to get sucked in! Power up! The next level is just ahead!
Enter the worlds of vintage video games in all of their archaic low-resolution splendor. Challenge Rooms in 8-Bit theme zone pack the mental and physical action of the very best – and visually dated – platformers, without the need to blow in a dusty old cartridge!
Binary
In a more technological world its all ones and zeros, but in this 8-Bit realm, Binary is simple squares of black and white. What gamers will quickly realize, though, is that this Challenge Room’s mental puzzle focus is anything but simple.
At first glance it’s just a matter of matching, but Binary’s overly simplistic two-tone parts can fast become the ultimate strategic puzzle of smarts. There’s nothing physical or tiresome about this task, but it’s sure to put brains through a work-out.
Lava
In a 1980’s style twist on the classic game of imagination The Floor is Lava, this task jumps from the world of imaginative play through the screen into its own 8-Bit video game come to life. Players will need both physical agility and physical reaction to not go down in pixelated flames.
Lava is just pure fun, from its purposely dated animated style to its game mechanic. Although technically a physical Challenge Room, this is one of the more attainable of that type in the venue, requiring no strength and very little balance thanks to its generously large landing platforms.
Hold on to your heads, brainiacs. The mind is a place of endless possibilities.
Imagination makes its home in the Brain, and this theme zone its ready to set it free. From mental deductions to skills and agility, a smart Brain controls it all.
Cells
Deep within the Brain’s cortex, every core memory is stored. In this Challenge Room, all of that collected knowledge will be put to good use through a combination of mental puzzle and mental communication.
Cells is an ever evolving trivia game, rewarding those who remember facts gained through a lifetime of learning. This Challenge Room is suitable for all, with no muscles or athletics required to look smart.
Harvest
Sometimes the silliness of an unrestrained imagination runs amuck, and that’s when aliens try to steal corn to make their crop circles. Defeating them in this Challenge Room will require harvesters to utilize skill timing and a touch of physical agility.
Would-be farmers must gather all the corn they can without getting themselves abducted. Although technically listed as physical agility, this delightfully ridiculous game requires no strength, endurance or balance making it still attainable for most guests.
What a weird, wonderful, whimsical wood!
Enter a wonderland where the abstract grows on trees and sprouts up all around. More than just imagination runs wild here with challenges that combine mental thought with physical actions.
Orchard
The peaceful clearing in the middle of Orchard is the perfect place to think. It’s a good thing too, because this Challenge Room calls for a mix of mental mystery and physical balance.
Orchard is a fairly stress-free environment where the fun is larger than life. Although this Challenge Room technically has a physical balance requirement, the gaming platform is very large and flat making it far more attainable than some of the other similarly qualified quests inside the Level99 Arena.
Style
Trapped inside a colorful piece of abstract Style art, the best way to pass the time is remembering lists of random facts. This Challenge Room is equal parts mental puzzle and mental communication.
Although each wild child will need to move around the small space often, there’s no balance, strength or agility required. Style is a button mashing game of teamwork attainable by virtually any Level99 guest.
You’ve come to these caves in search of meaning. What you’ve found is so much more.
Deep within a Crystal cavern glows a hidden realm of sparkling surprises. Spelunkers exploring this underground world will face challenges of all type, mental, physical and skill-based.
Jump
(Level99 describes this Challenge Room as requiring a mix of skill timing and physical agility. Unfortunately due to time constraints, we were unable to experience Jump during our initial visit, but plan to update this article as soon as we have an opportunity for a return visit.)
Visions
Formed at the center of a massive, shimmering purple amethyst gem is Visions. This challenge room embraces mental puzzle and mental memory playstyles.
This task evokes the deductive flavor of some classic escape game puzzles, sending visionaries down a path of observation and deduction. Visions lacks any physical or athletic skill-based abilities, making it attainable for any guests.
This world of ones and zeroes needs a tech-savvy hero. Cyberspace will never be the same.
It’s time to be uploaded into the digital coding of Computer. This theme zone requires both mental and physical process servers to complete its system update.
Circuit
Deep within Computer’s glowing motherboard is Circuit. This Challenge Room will require a minimum system requirement of both mental puzzles and mental mystery.
Programmers will need to replicate source code exactly or risk a complete mainframe crash. Circuit can be best compared to a compelling tech-powered logic puzzle found in more traditional escape games, and requires no physical strength or ability to complete.
Glitch
(Level99 describes this Challenge Room as requiring a mix of physical reaction and physical agility. Unfortunately due to time constraints, we were unable to experience Glitch during our initial experience, but plan to update this article as soon as we have an opportunity for a return visit.)
Password
(Level99 describes this Challenge Room as requiring a mix of mental puzzle and mental communication. Unfortunately due to time constraints, we were unable to experience Password during our initial experience, but plan to update this article as soon as we have an opportunity for a return visit.)
But it’s on the venue’s second floor where the excitement really… Levels up. (See? Our puns can be funny sometimes?) The free-flow layout of this massive space is easy to become lost in, evoking a genuine sense of exploration and discovery with surprises around every corner. The upstairs Arena is home to an absolutely mind-blowing forty-nine different Challenge Rooms spread between fifteen different theme zones:
The forces of nature are fickle. Witness their power. Seek their gifts.
Storms, gold nuggets and magic potions may be the three elements that Captain Planet forgot, but here, they combine to be some of the most solid Challenge Rooms in the Arena. This theme zone has a heavy focus on mental tasks, with a healthy mix of some skill and physical interaction.
Alchemy
A quaint wizard’s shop serves as the backdrop for one of Level99’s more “escape game-familiar” offerings. This Challenge Room has a heavy focus on mental puzzle and mental mystery that fans of the genre will gravitate towards.
Alchemy is also the Arena’s most detailed scenic presentation, creating an immersive space for a very tech-driven puzzle of wits. Aspiring wizards of all types will find this puzzle approachable, without any need for physical strength, stamina or balance.
Mine
Buried deep within the Goldrush Mine is a Challenge Room focused on skill dexterity and mental communication. Prospectors will need to closely work together if they hope to strike it rich.
The rustic setting is dominated by a large steel cage in the center of the Mine, evoking a sense of old equipment that might have been left behind from the goldrush era. Miners will not need any physical balance or stamina, though a very small amount of strength may be put to use.
Stormchaser
Hunkered down in a ravaged remnants of an old weather station, would-be Stormchasers will have their mental communication and physical reaction put to the test in real time. Radar shows an impending direct hit of the worst type of storm: all of them! It’s the Works! Everything at once! (Or was that for pizza?)
We’re talking tornadoes and blizzards and bears, oh my! (Just kidding, there’s no bears; they’re cows.) This absurdly silly Challenge Room is suitable for all aspiring meteorologists, with no tasks requiring stamina, balance or strength involved. (The only ‘physicality‘ is lifting and moving small map markers.)
Color. Sound. Light. Enter a space beyond reality. Become one with your senses.
There’s a type of Wavelength for everyone, and in this theme zone they’ve all merged together. Every type of play style is present in this spectrum, from highly physical to skill-based accuracy and mental deduction.
Cords
Shifting focus past the psychedelic glowing Cords reveals a rather difficult Challenge Room focused on a bit of mental mystery and a whole lot of physical agility. Make no mistake, this game is the most difficult end of the Wavelength.
Those truly in touch with their senses will need the strength to support their full body weight on free-moving platforms. This is one Challenge Room that may not be best suited for players looking to keep their feet flat on the ground, or those not comfortable with strenuous physical activity.
Flux
Simple logic is completely in Flux in this Challenge Room that blends mental puzzles with skill accuracy. The questions may be simple, but answering them has a uniquely gamified twist.
Color is at the forefront of this task, from the questions it asks to the eye-catching stylistic presence of the room itself. Although Flux will require no physical strength, balance or stamina, it’s worth noting at least someone in the group will need to clearly be able to differentiate the six color options in order to succeed.
Soundscape
This trippy journey through an infinity light box will engage listeners with its unexpected Soundscape. This Challenge Room calls for mental puzzles and mental communication.
Success is only possible by letting the Soundscape itself take control. Although there is nothing physical about this challenge, the ability to hear clearly is critical for all participating members of a group.
The road to ninja mastery begins here.
Set in a series of Japanese-stylized pagodas, this theme zone puts physicality in the forefront. To all those who have watched American Ninja Warrior on TV and shouted “even I could do that!” – well, you’re about to find out that no, you probably cannot.
Dojo
Set within a small, round Ninja training Dojo, this Challenge Room focuses on both physical agility and physical reaction. Constant motion and a keen eye will test the wits of even the most diligent warriors.
Although Dojo is classified as a double physical Challenge Room, it’s actually still one of the more attainable of that genre. This training course requires no physical strength and very little balance, though will have Ninjas constantly in motion and require quick reflexes.
Paths
The irony of paths is that it has none, at least not in a traditional sense. This Challenge Room demands physical agility and physical strength to the extreme.
Paths is easily among Level99’s most physically demanding experiences. This particular game is in no way suited for would-be Ninjas who cannot support the entirety of their body weight and have the stamina to do so for an extended duration.
Swing
Aspiring Samurai will find great reward from the Ninja trials of Swing. This Challenge Room tests both the physical strength and physical agility of those wishing to succeed.
This is another heavily physical game that requires would-be warriors to lift and support their entire body weight. Taking a successful Swing will also place a high importance on balance and accuracy.
My! You’re quite the… curious visitor. Please, come in. We’ve been expecting you.
This eclectic Mansion is decorated to the nines with a most peculiar taste, yet there’s still something weirdly welcoming about it. That’s because this theme zone is home to two Challenge Rooms focused on escape game-styled mental puzzles sure to make its visitors feel right at home.
Banquet
Dinner guests will feast on Level99’s most escape game-adjacent Challenge Room, with its full focus firmly placed on a most satisfying mental puzzle. Here, the art of setting the table is just as delicious as the main course.
The Banquet is hosted in another of the Arena’s most detailed scenic environments, with various busts and… err.. butts lining the mismatched walls surrounding a large dinner table which somehow still becomes the main focal point. Serving the perfect meal will require no physical strength, stamina or agility, nor any athletic skill, making Banquet a delectable choice for all guests.
Gallery
Elsewhere in the Mansion, the portrait Gallery is proudly on display. Paying proper respect to the countless generations who hang frozen in this Challenge Room will rely on a mental puzzle.
Gallery is equal parts observation and deduction, making it a satisfying task for all ages. At no point does this game require any physical strength, endurance, stamina or any sort of athletic-based skill.
Beneath lush canopies, a world of fascinating creatures and vibrant plant life awaits.
Set off on a vibrant adventure deep into the heart of the rainforest – home to many creatures big and small. But be they cute or not, these wild animals and insects are bound to get in the way, unless, of course, adventurers come equipped with a well-honed set of skills.
Catch
This challenge can be as simple as it sounds, on paper. Unfortunately that page was just dropped into a piranha-filled lake just beneath the slightly elevated docks. Future fish food testing their luck in this Challenge Room will need skill accuracy to not lose a toe, finger or worse.
Catch is a highly family-friendly game that requires no physical strength or stamina, though a minimal amount of balance may come into play. Its planked dock platform that lines three sides is somewhat narrow, and sits slightly elevated above a downward sloping lake.
Splat
By its nature, a rainforest means water, and as anyone who’s ever been to Florida knows, water means mosquitos. This pesky Challenge Room will require skill accuracy and physical balance to avoid being bit.
Splat is a love letter to all of those who have ever been bitten by a mosquito and fantasized about enacting disproportionately violent forms of revenge on the hungry pest. Although this task requires no form of physical strength or stamina, all participating bug buffets will spend the duration balancing on a fairly narrow, slightly elevated beam which traverses the center of the space.
CAUTION. Now entering active work zone. No engineering degree required.
Construct is the perfect theme zone for those who love to build. Blocks of all shapes and sizes will test metal wits and skills under pressure.
Cubes
Upon first glance at the schematics of these Cubes, builders might think their task will be easy. This Challenge Room, however, is anything but – with these blocks stacking up to create a surprisingly complex mental puzzle.
Cubes is a task which flows very familiarly to puzzles often found in more traditional escape games. This challenge will put all focus on mental problem solving, never requiring any sort of physical strength, balance, stamina or athletic skills.
Skyscraper
Just beyond an active construction site, a beloved childhood game now stretches to truly Skyscraper height. Erecting this Challenge Room will require a whole lot of skill dexterity.
Architects will need a certification in calm-handed patience if they hope to see their tower break through the clouds. This construction site has no requirements for any mental prowess or physical abilities, though having at least one taller member in the crew will certainly prove beneficial.
Experience the wonders of our vast universe.
They say in Space, no one can hear you scream… at your friend, for pushing the wrong button and losing a point for your team. This themed galaxy requires skill and physical interaction to stay in orbit.
Comet
Shooting stars rain down from Space in an exciting game suitable for all ages. This Challenge Room seeks astronauts trained in skill timing and physical reaction.
Comet can quickly become the best type of chaos, fueled with its non-stop glowing kinetic energy. Although technically listed as having a physical requirement, in this part of the galaxy it’s just about the ability to push buttons and move around at a rapid pace. There is no need for physical strength, stamina, balance or endurance.
Nebula
(Level99 describes this Challenge Room as requiring skill accuracy. Unfortunately due to time constraints, we were unable to experience Nebula during our initial experience, but plan to update this article as soon as we have an opportunity for a return visit.)
Void
Twisting through a worm hole into the Void of Space can be a lot more fun than it sounds. Interstellar travelers to this Challenge Room are best equipped with physical agility and physical reaction.
Two physical requirements can at first glance make Void seem a bit intimidating – but it shouldn’t be. Despite being trapped in the recesses of space, astronauts can keep their feet firmly on solid ground throughout the mission. This challenge won’t call for strength, endurance or balancing on an uneven surface, but Space cadets should be prepared to get flexible if they wish to make it back to their respective home planets after the journey.
Welcome aboard the starship Axia – your vector to the stars!
While Space conjures the hopeful wonder the cosmos, the Starship flying through it is a bit more bleak. Archaic technology and systems in disrepair need fixing immediately, and doing so will require crew to exhibit both mental smarts and skill-based accuracy.
Engine Room
The Starship is running critically low on fuel, and without a recharge – and fast – it’s at risk of becoming just another piece of space junk floating to nowhere. This Challenge Room will put astronauts’ mental puzzle skills to the test.
Engine Room is an active and engaging game suitable for all ages. Although cadets will be constantly moving about the space, they will at no point need physical strength, balance or endurance to recharge the Starship.
Evacuate
Another day, another crisis about the aging Axia. In order to subvert it, engineers will need skill dexterity and a little bit of patience.
Evacuate has both a flow and puzzle style similar to that found in a more traditional escape game. Though it’s task is challenging, it’s still something that even younger members of the crew could achieve, and at no point does it require physical strength, stamina or balance to succeed.
Specimen
Sometimes science can seem a bit convoluted, but in the case of Specimen, that’s exactly what makes it so fun. This Challenge Room will test analysts’ skill dexterity.
Don’t worry; the glowing Specimen itself is sealed behind protective glass, and any interaction with it is done from a safe distance. Prospective scientists won’t need any physical attributes, balance or even mental prowess to complete this collection.
Let’s take a trip back in time, and party like it’s 1979!
The classics never die. Time may pass, but Retro is forever. This themed zone reimagines old favorites with a modern twist for a play style that makes use of all ability types: physical, skill and mental.
Coinsweeper
The objective of this real-life video game will likely become immediately clear upon stepping through its screen, but that will hardly make it easy. This Challenge Room will press select on both mental memory and physical agility.
Coinsweeper projects a classic onto a modern platform, and can quickly become addictively replayble. Gamers won’t need any sort of athletic skills, physical strength or balance as this challenge plays out on flat ground at all times.
Pinball
(Level99 describes this Challenge Room as requiring a mix of skill accuracy and skill timing. Unfortunately due to time constraints, we were unable to experience Pinball during our initial experience, but plan to update this article as soon as we have an opportunity for a return visit.)
Vinyl
Prospective DJs finally get a chance to step inside the turntable and see things from the other side. This Challenge Room requires a great deal of physical balance and physical reaction.
Like any great Vinyl, this one is about to spin – a lot. Although the rotation is always disc jockey controlled, it’s easy to become very dizzy, very quickly. This game won’t require any physical strength in terms of lifting, but may prove to be quite the workout just to remain standing for its duration, and from that could became one of the more difficult challenges within the Arena.
Level99 Studios presents… the incredible story of real-life superheroes, starring you!
Whether it’s stepping into the pages of a comic book come to life or becoming a Saturday morning cartoon character, this theme zone is sure to bring out the kid in everyone. Comic’s light-hearted games focus on both mental and physical interactions.
Smash
Every collector has imagined stepping into their favorite comic book to write their own story. In this Challenge Room, they’ll do exactly that, with utility belts stocked for mental puzzle and physical reaction tasks.
Smash allows once-passive readers to actively soundtrack their own story. This is a game suitable for everyone, as it takes place on flat ground, with its only physical requirement being the ability to push buttons (although some of them are a bit higher up.)
Toon
Humans are invited to step into the animated world and become their own characters on the television screen in real time. This Challenge Room will test physical agility.
Toon is light-hearted and fun, putting its live actors into silly situations instantly befitting a classic childhood Saturday morning show. Although classified as physical, this challenge requires no strength, stamina or balance and can even be accomplished while sitting, making it suitable for the entire family.
Climb inside the chroma kaleidoscope, and live life in full color!
A world of vibrancy in motion, Chroma truly pops with its bright sense of creativity. The colorful challenges within this theme zone are both skill and (very lightly) physical-focused.
Bounce
A chaotic kaleidoscope of scoring fun awaits players in Bounce. This Challenge Room puts full focus on skill accuracy.
With a vast range of scoring options available, players have precious little time to decide between a sure bet for less or much riskier shots worth a substantial reward. Bounce is suitable for the entire family, with nothing requiring strength, balance or endurance.
Chameleon
An ever morphing jungle is home to Chameleon, but here, it’s not just the lizard changing its colors. This Challenge Room makes use of physical reaction.
Although it’s lone attribute is technically physical, nature lovers will only need the ability to push buttons with a single finger. Chameleon is one of the most approachable physical-marked games within the Arena, requiring no strength, balance, endurance or skill. It is, however, worth noting that at least someone in the group will need to clearly be able to differentiate color options in order to succeed.
Aaarrr, mateys! Climb aboard, and prepare to set sail o’er the Seven Seas!
“Yo ho, yo ho, a pirates life for me” would probably have been very different lyrics had it been clear at the time just how difficult that existence can be. On this ship, a pirate’s life requires every physical attribute imaginable, and a willingness to sometimes look a little silly while trying.
Brig
No one would assume getting locked in a Brig is something to brag about, but this is one of Level99’s most iconic tasks. This Challenge Room demands both extreme physical agility and physical strength.
Brig may not be suited for all landlubbers in your crew – a phrase which here actually means Brig is absolutely, positively not suited for everyone. This is a highly physical challenge which requires both strength and coordination. Although the floor within the Brig is heavily padded, we highly advise you to be aware of your own physical limitations before doing something that could potentially lead to injury. For those who complete it, Brig is one of Level99’s truest bragging rights.
Plank
Just once it would be nice to join a Pirates crew without quickly being made to walk the Plank. At least in this Challenge Room requiring physical balance, it’s both fun and dry.
Bilge rats sentenced to walk the Plank will do so on a rather narrow, moving beam situated a few inches above the perilous waters (painted on the floor.) This task requires a high amount of balance, but requires no strength, stamina or endurance. Even those in the group who may otherwise shy away from physical tasks will still find great enjoyment in at least trying.
Contamination risk is high. Days without incident are rare.
It’s a meltdown of epic proportions in Reactor. Sometimes gritty, others cartoonish, this theme zone has challenges of all types, from mental to skill, and even one of the Arena’s most physical.
Refuel
In order to prevent a shutdown, technicians must Refuel the core by charging its power rod while safely shielded by protective glass. This Challenge Room uses a blend of mental communication and skill timing.
The power plant appears grimy and in disrepair, adding a sense of urgency to Refuel it as quickly as possible before a meltdown is triggered. This puzzle requires no physical strength, endurance or balance making it suitable for all operators (so long as they aren’t allergic to nuclear material, of course.)
Relay
Reactivating the Relay core will require engineers to have glowing teamwork. This Challenge Room calls for mental communication and skill dexterity.
Relay proves that following simple posted instructions can sometimes be anything but easy. This task evokes the sense of a more traditional escape game where teamwork is critical and the weakest link can trigger the next incident at any time. Thematic risks not withstanding, Relay is a challenge attainable by all guests, requiring no physical strength or balance to complete.
Sludge
Brightly colored Sludge may look fun to play with, but that doesn’t make it healthy. This Challenge Room requires a very high degree of both physical strength and physical agility.
With a chemical meltdown clearly in full effect, there’s no time for monkeying around. This challenge is highly physical, and may not be suitable for all plant operators. Although a meltdown would be catastrophic, there’s at least some solace in knowing the Sludge itself acts as a suitably soft padding.
Leave your maps, apps and compasses at home. Getting lost is half the fun.
Multiple paths lead to even more stylistic approaches. This theme zone’s dead ends will put mental, skill and physical abilities on the map, making it a destination for players looking for a little taste of escape game-style fun.
Blueprint
A Blueprint often contains all sorts of complicated information, even for those trained to know how to read them. In this Challenge Room, architects will need mental communication and physical crawling to build toward success.
This room-sized blueprint come to life will require at least one member of the design team to remain crawling on their hands and knees while another remains behind, able to stand. The task requires an escape game-like ability to communicate and decipher. No physical strength, balance or skill is needed, and although crawling is required for at least one, Blueprint can still be enjoyed by all provided they select the proper roles.
Labyrinth
Hidden within a giant wooden labyrinth is a maze table like no other. This Challenge Room will put skill timing and physical balance to the test in the most unique of ways.
Labyrinth is sure to delight fans of more traditional style escape games, while simultaneously providing a fresh spin that instantly raises excitement levels. Labyrinth won’t require physical strength or endurance, but calculated balance is vital, making this a Challenge Room that might actually be more achievable in smaller groups.
Unseen
Although a classic maze always offers its own challenge, with careful thought they’re easy enough to just follow the path, right? But what if there is no path at all? This colorful Challenge Room calls for physical agility and mental puzzle.
Navigating these vibrant paint splats will take careful concentration, but it’s physicality is really just about walking in straight lines on a completely flat floor. Unseen’s path may not be clear, but it’s still a highly attainable challenge for all, requiring no strength, balance or athletic skills.
A world of candy-coated indulgence awaits. Be sure to save room for dessert!
Popeye needs his spinach to grow strong, but Level99 teaches that it’s actually Sugar which fuels highly physicaltasks. Some mental and skill-based tasks are just the cherry on top.
Crash
They say you can never have too much of a good thing, but over-indulging on Sugar can lead to one seriously physical Crash. This Challenge Room needs both physical agility and physical strength to leave dessert plates clean.
The focus of Crash is squarely on physical skills, but its first few spoonfuls make give a taste of over-confidence. Like every serious brain freeze, this task can become unexpectedly complex to endure with little warning. Crash is served on the lower end of Level99’s most physically demanding rooms, leaving some to consider a diet instead.
Twist
Fans of the iconic reality competition TV show ‘Big Brother’ will instantly be familiar with how difficult this oversized peppermint stick is about to become. This Challenge Room invites players to experience it for real, provided they have enough physical balance and physical strength to stick around, that is.
Although Twist is extremely physical, it’s attainable for most to at least try. This challenge will require candy lovers to have a double scoop of endurance and some serious balance on a very small platform a few inches above the floor. In the end, a sweet tooth may not get you far, but at least there’s the memories – and minty-fresh breath – to prove that an attempt was made!
Works
Inside a quaint candy shop sits the world’s only Gumball Sort-O-Matic! This complex and slightly convoluted machine sets the stage for a Challenge Room cooking up a blend of mental puzzle and skill accuracy.
Confectioners will need speed and smarts in a task that could greatly benefit from some well-timed teamwork. When on ice cream, the Works means a little bit of everything, but here, it requires no physicality of any sort – be it strength, endurance or balance making this an achievable puzzle for all.
Embark on an unforgettable journey beneath the surface.
Deep below the waves lurks a whole other world of adventure. Accessible only via Submarine, this theme zone will make use of every play style – mental, physical, skill and shark. OK, there’s no shark-style challenges. But there should be.
Crew
Every reputable submarine needs a good crew, and the S.S. Flounder… well, at this point they’ll take anyone they can get. This deep diving Challenge Room calls for mental communication and physical reaction. Strong swimming skills are just a bonus.
Aboard the S.S. Flounder, technical glitches flow even faster than its many probable water leaks. Crew will need to think fast – and read even faster – if they hope to see the surface again. This game’s physical reaction qualification merely requires the ability to push buttons, turn dials or flip switches; nothing fathoms below will need physical strength, balance or endurance.
Defuse
Lurking in the shadowy depths are several old – yet very active – naval mines. To Defuse them in this Challenge Room will require a combination of heavy mental communication and skill timing.
Undersea explorers will need patience, open dialogue and high amounts of teamwork to avoid, well, exploding. This game, although difficult, requires no physicality of any sort, making it something that any member of the group can comfortably attempt.
Unlike the teamwork-driven Challenge Rooms, Duels are a player vs. player interactives that are each winner takes all. These activities only work with as groups of two – so any visiting Level99 in larger groups will need to pair off to participate.
Duels also greatly differ from Challenge Rooms in a very major way: while the latter take place privately behind closed doors, these head to head combats are set completely out in the open, right in the middle of the Arena. What that means is that when participating in a Duel, any glorious victory – and every spectacular failure – takes place in front of a live audience ready to cheer (and laugh) at the outcome.
There are three different Duels available on the Arena’s first floor:
Axe Run
Perhaps Level99’s single most brand-iconic challenge, Axe Run is situated appropriately sightline center right inside the venue’s entrance. This challenge is the result of so many classic video game moments come to life – reminiscent of Super Mario running past swinging traps in one of Bowser’s many castle boss levels. For anyone who grew up on video games, Axe Run is an instant must-do first stop on any Level99 visit.
Although technically a Duel, Axe Run is actually the only single player activity in the entire Arena. Where it becomes a proper Duel is in comparing fastest score times separately. This task requires physical balance on a fairly narrow beam (elevated just a few inches above the floor) combined with a carefully calculated skill timing of each alternately swinging axe.
Axe Run is as much a spectator sport as it is a playable game. Channeling out the cheers (or jeers) from the surrounding crowds adds a unique layer of fun that elevates this experience to the conversation of one of Level99’s very best.
Lightning
(Level99 describes this Duel as requiring skill reflex. Unfortunately due to time constraints, we were unable to experience Lightning during our initial experience, but plan to update this article as soon as we have an opportunity for a return visit.)
VOLLEY
(Level99 describes this Duel as requiring a skill timing. Unfortunately due to time constraints, we were unable to experience Volley during our initial experience, but plan to update this article as soon as we have an opportunity for a return visit.)
Upstairs isn’t just stacked with more Challenge Rooms. There’s also four additional Duels to be found on Level99’s second floor:
Spin
Situated in an open air circular stage, this Duel requires a heavy amount of skill timing. Although Spin’s goal may become almost immediately clear, properly executing it amid the pressure of playing face to face against a friend can add a surprising layer of difficulty.
This Duel is achievable by all, requiring no physicality, balance or endurance. It is perhaps important to note that despite its name, this Duel’s platform does not actually spin (but that doesn’t mean you won’t soon enough.)
Scramble
This player versus player Duel feels a lot like multiple existing sports crammed all into one. Defending the goal will require a healthy amount of skill accuracy, combined with with some mental planning.
Scramble is a game of speed, aim and a little bit of bluffing. This would-be sport requires no physical strength or balance, though it will have players fairly active for its short duration, creating a satisfying combat even for those typically less than athletic members of the team.
SnakeByte
SnakeByte is a larger-than-life evolution of a well-known retro game. This player versus player Duel has combatants mounting gigantic joysticks in a battle that requires real-time mental puzzle skills to plan several moves in advance.
SnakeByte will no doubt be a favorite Duel in the Arena, evoking fond memories of classic arcade fun in an active, energized way. Even better, this is Level99’s most scenically themed Duel, from it’s outlandishly over-sized joysticks to its massive wooden-framed CRT TV.
Countdown
Despite being simple in its operation, Countdown is a high-stress head to head Duel. Poised at the detonating plungers of two opposing crates of dynamite, players will need to embrace mental puzzle and physical reaction skills.
Countdown’s greatest twist is one that isn’t seen coming – literally. It adds a unique layer of nerves to this multi-round Duel which can be enjoyed by all players, without any requirement of physical strength or balance.
(Level99 describes Hunt Art as an exploration of dozens of unique, locally made art pieces and installations throughout their wild Arena, giving the chance to hunt for hidden glyphs in each piece to earn stars. Unfortunately due to time constraints, we were unable to experience Hunt Art during our initial experience, but plan to update this article as soon as we have an opportunity for a return visit.)
Multiple hours of non-stop challenges can certainly build up quite the appetite! Level99 has that covered for that too. Game On serves a carefully curated menu of artisan dishes all prepared fresh, from Detroit-style pizzas to Wagyu burgers and even quicker bites like wings, Bavarian pretzels, baked mac + cheese and more.
Unfortunately we were so hyper-focused on tackling as many challenges as we could that we never got a chance to try any of it on our visit. All of that delicious food would have definitely helped to keep the energy fully charged for the more challenging tasks ahead!
For those thirsty, a stunning, eye-catching central bar serves as a visual icon that not only draws guests in, but also encourages them to explore the venue’s vast second floor above it. Dynamic, always changing LED rings reach all the way up to a height of two stories, adding a constant sense of kinetic motion to activate the entirety of Level99 itself.
The bar serves a large selection of cocktails and craft brews. There are even some non-alcoholic options making it a suitable break spot for the entire family.
PRO TIP: Although playtime has a rigid specific duration per reservation, gamers have the option to pause it for up to 30 minutes to eat, drink or just take a break at any point!
Did you know that there’s a law which states anything on Disney property legally must end with a gift shop? Well, there’s not really, but it sure did sound believable, huh?
Of course Level99 also has its own gift shop, stocked with a selection of high quality clothing options. The store also offers several branded classic vacation collectables such as magnets, stickers and post cards.
Of interest to many Disney Parks fans will be an entire line of collectible pins, each styled after the artistically iconic facades of the venue’s fifty-six challenge rooms split across twenty-three unique theme zones. Every pin features a door which can actually be opened for a peak inside!
Here’s the really cool part: guests can accumulate points – called Fragments – that can be exchanged for real-life merchandise items, including a special edition permanent Veloband to use each visit (or even food and drink perks within the venue.) Fragments can be earned for free by simply playing the games! Coins earned within Challenge Rooms can also be traded in digitally for any missing Fragments needed to earn those real-world rewards.
If a traditional-style escape game is stepping into a movie to become an active character in its storyworld, there is simply no question that Level99 allows players to get dropped straight into the center of their favorite video games come to life. This is the purest form of a technological playground for adults.
Within minutes of beginning playtime, it’s instantly obvious that this is a travel-worthy destination attraction. Its ingenuity, creativity and fresh approach to game-based entertainment, combined with the fact that this newest iteration is smack dab in the middle of a constantly busy Disney Springs leads to one simple conclusion: Level99 is going to print money!
The Arena’s three distinctly different types of challenges – mental, skill-based and physical – create an easy-to-understand basis for what players are getting into before scanning their Velobands. The nuance of most Challenge Rooms actually blending any combination of two of those styles makes every game feel fresh and unique, even with a daunting total of sixty-three of them to try.
And speaking of number of challenges, a commonly asked question is just how much time is needed to experience Level99. The best response to that question truly depends on what you’d most like to get out of it. That being said, the simplest answer is there’s just no way anyone will see it all in a single visit.
During our hosted private event at Level99 amid very limited crowds, we were granted 3.25 hours of playtime – a bit longer than current ticket maximum of 2.5 hours. We pushed HARD to see and do as many challenges as we could just to get a flavor for each of their unique mechanics. We took no breaks, and even passed on the many delicious food options available to sample. There was no time for monkeying around!
Even with a heavily rushed, ‘all business‘ approach and a longer than average allowed play-time, we did not see everything. At the end of our 3.25 hours, we experienced a whopping fifty-six out of sixty-three challenges, which is certainly no slouch!
Although we got SO close to 100% coverage on our first visit, we left with a clear understanding that the best way to experience Level99 is to do so casually, taking the time to enjoy and soak everything in. Simply put, many challenges are so fun that most players will want to do them multiple times.
It was compelling to see that a majority of the physical-focused Challenge Rooms were still achievable, even for members of our group less apt for feats of strength and athleticism. To use a technical term, there were, however, three ‘hard nopes‘ among them for some of our team: the Ninja themed Paths, Reactor’s Sludge and the Pirates-focused Brig. In each, it was instantly noticeable the moment their respective Challenge Room doors opened that this would not be suitable for everyone on our team.
Here’s the good news: at any point, no matter the reason, if a task is not right for you, an unlocked exit door is always available. That being said – don’t let a label of “physical” be the deterrent on its own; the only way to be sure in most cases is to try.
Understand that with most Challenge Rooms regardless of their brand, failure often will come first, and sometimes even frequently. Here’s the thing: that’s often weirdly part of the fun. The “ah ha!” of figuring these things out is a massive reward on its own, and why we’ve actively aimed to give no hints or discuss any specific gaming mechanics throughout our coverage.
For those just wanting a peek inside Level99, a paid ticket is not required to access the merchandise or food and beverage locations, or any of the Arena’s common areas including its wide array of local art. Understandably so, this is, of course based on building capacity – so if Level99 is sold out in that moment, odds are high that window-shoppers might be asked to try back at another time.
Level99 is a hip, fresh new approach to interactive game-based attractions. Its vibe is instantly energizing, engaging, exciting and addictive – though perhaps the experience is better summed with just one single word: FUN.
Disney Springs just LEVELED UP.
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Venue: Level99
Location: Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Number of Challenges: 63
GAME SPECIFIC INFORMATION:
Duration: challenges range between 1-4 minutes
Capacity: group sizes can range between 2-6 people
Group Type: Private / You will not be paired with strangers.
Cost: Reservation-based tickets vary by duration and day as follows:
- $29.99 per person | 1.5 hour duration Monday – Friday
$39.99 per person | 1.5 hour duration Saturday
$35.99 per person | 1.5 hour duration Sunday - $39.99 per person | 2.5 hour duration Monday – Friday
$49.99 per person | 2.5 hour duration Saturday
$45.99 per person | 2.5 hour duration Sunday
We thank Level99 for inviting us to experience this attraction. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, that in no way impacts the opinion included within this review.
