The haunting strains of the Red Light, Green Light nursery rhyme echo through a cavernous London warehouse, sending shivers down spines as participants freeze in terror. This is no ordinary night out - this is the Squid Game Immersive Experience, where Netflix's dystopian nightmare leaps from screen to reality.
From Screen to Reality: The Games Begin
Located in a industrial space near Tottenham Court Road, this £55 attraction promises to transport visitors directly into the deadly competition that captivated millions worldwide. But does it deliver the heart-pounding tension of the original series, or is it merely an expensive cosplay opportunity?
The experience kicks off with participants receiving their signature green tracksuits and player numbers, immediately establishing the unsettling atmosphere that made the show so compelling. The familiar games await, though thankfully without the lethal consequences.
The Good: When Immersion Works
Certain elements genuinely impress. The Dalgona candy challenge proves as frustratingly delicate as television suggested, while the glass bridge sequence creates genuine vertigo despite obvious safety measures. The production design captures the unsettling aesthetic of the series perfectly, from the oversized playground furniture to the ominous pink corridors.
Highlight moments include:
- The terrifying Red Light, Green Light doll, whose rotating head and scanning eyes recreate the show's most iconic scene
- The tension-filled marble game, which forces genuine emotional connections between strangers
- The dramatic elimination sequences that maintain suspense despite knowing nobody actually dies
The Disappointments: Where Reality Bites
Unfortunately, the experience struggles with the same issue facing many immersive attractions: balancing safety with authenticity. The presence of visible security staff and obvious emergency exits constantly reminds participants they're in a controlled environment, undermining the visceral fear that defined the series.
Some visitors reported overcrowding issues, with large groups diminishing the personal stakes. At nearly £60 per ticket after fees, many questioned whether the two-hour experience provided sufficient value compared to other London attractions.
Is It Worth the Price of Admission?
For die-hard Squid Game fans, this immersive experience offers unique bragging rights and incredible photo opportunities. The production values are impressive, and several sequences successfully capture the show's unsettling atmosphere.
However, those seeking genuine thrills or deep emotional engagement might find the sanitised version lacking the raw intensity that made the original so compelling. It's an entertaining novelty rather than a truly transformative experience.
The Squid Game Immersive Experience runs for limited dates in London, with tickets selling quickly despite the premium price point. Whether it's worth the investment depends entirely on your expectations - and how much you value that perfect Instagram story.
