The Alchemist - Sherlocked

Overall Rating: 9.3

Location	Amsterdam, Netherlands
Date Played	February 7, 2024
Team Sizes	2-6 players; plenty to do for 2! The website says 3-6 but we were able to have them accommodate a duo. We'd recommend no more than 4 people.
Duration	90 minutes
Website	https://www.sherlocked.nl/experiences/the-alchemist

Set & Atmosphere – 10

Fantastical, wondrous, and meticulously crafted — The Alchemist is stunning. The set is expansive, with dynamic environments and the props feel like one-of-a-kind creations. Technology is woven in seamlessly to simulate alchemy and magic, creating moments of sheer delight.

Story & Immersion – 9.5

The narrative of the alchemist is carefully threaded through the puzzles and set, with lore that enriches the experience without feeling overwhelming. Reading material ties directly into the story arc, making it feel purposeful rather than like filler. The finale is particularly epic. It's the kind of ending that makes you want to replay the room just to relive the moment.

Puzzles & Mechanics – 9

Tactile, clever, and deeply satisfying. The puzzles reward observation and dexterity, with plenty of “aha!” moments. Each mechanism feels thoughtfully designed to match the world’s magical flavor.

Flow – 9

Progression is strong, with puzzles and story elements feeding into each other organically. The only odd moment was a mishap with a massive mechanism that seemed broken. The GM had to step in to insure that it was functioning appropriately. Otherwise, the balance of tasks, exploration, and reveals kept us engaged from start to finish.

Verdict – 9.3

The Alchemist is a magical, immersive escape room that blends story and puzzle design into one unforgettable package. With tactile puzzles, stunning props, and an epic finale, it’s arguably the best escape room in Amsterdam. This is a room that lingers in your memory — one of our all-time favorites.