When it comes to organizing a fun group outing or corporate team building activity, two choices usually come to mind: escape rooms and paintball. Both provide engaging experiences based on collaboration, communication, and strategy. But which one actually checks all the boxes when organizing something for a large team?
Whether you’re a corporate HR manager planning your next employee day out, or just a group of mates looking for a thrilling challenge without coming home covered in bruises, this guide breaks down the pros and cons of each — and reveals why escape room for large groups are becoming the go-to solution across Australia.
What Are You Really Looking For in a Team Activity?
Before getting into the head-to-head comparison, let’s pause to discuss what constitutes a perfect activity for big teams:
- Accessible and appropriate for all fitness levels
- Fosters collaboration and interaction
- Affordable per person, especially with large numbers
- Safe, without the danger of being injured or unpleasant.
- Flexible for company scheduling, including weekdays.
- Memorable and fun, not a typical day at the workplace
Now, let’s see how escape rooms and paintball stack up.
Paintball: Adrenaline, But at What Cost?
Paintball is frequently described as an exhilarating team sport, and it is. However, it’s not always the best option for big or mixed-ability groups.
Pros:
- Action-packed and full of vitality
- Encourages a spirit of competition
- Excellent for those who enjoy the outdoors
Cons:
- May cause pain: It hurts to be hit by paintballs
- Expensive for big gatherings: Costs can increase dramatically when paintball, gear rental, and frequent travel to far-flung places are involved.
- Depending on the weather: The experience can be ruined by rain, mud, or intense heat.
- Excludes certain individuals: Not everyone enjoys getting bruises or running around.
- Very little actual teamwork frequently devolves into a “every person for themselves” game.
- Paintball may not be the best option if there are individuals on your team who aren’t interested in physical combat or if you want to foster genuine teamwork.
Escape Rooms for Large Groups: Smart Fun, No Battle Scars
Now let’s talk about escape rooms — and why more Australian companies and groups are turning to them for corporate team building activities.
At Great Escape VIC, we specialize in immersive, puzzle-based escape rooms designed specifically to handle large teams and group bookings. Here’s why they’re a better alternative to paintball:
- Designed for Collaboration
Escape rooms are inherently about working together. Success depends on how well your group communicates, shares ideas, and solves problems under pressure. Every player contributes, making them ideal for building trust and team cohesion.
- No Physical Contact or Pain
There is no chance of injury, no heavy equipment, and no fear of being shot. Escape rooms are a great way to challenge teams of people of different ages and abilities because they are both mentally and physically demanding.
- Convenient & Weatherproof
Because our escape rooms are completely climate-controlled and indoors, you won’t ever have to worry about your plans being derailed by Australia’s unpredictable weather. Additionally, because we are based in Victoria, both locals and businesses in Melbourne and the surrounding areas can easily reach us.
- Scalable for Large Groups
With customized experiences that can hold dozens of players, Great Escape VIC offers escape rooms for large groups. Regardless of the size of your group—ten or fifty—we make sure that everyone is involved.
- Budget-Friendly Team Events
Escape rooms are generally less expensive per person than paintball, especially when you account for travel, paintball top-ups, and equipment rental. Value and affordability are the main considerations in the creation of our group packages.
- Ideal for Corporate Team Building
Our escape rooms are among the best corporate team building activities in Australia, and they are used for everything from rewarding high-performing teams to onboarding new hires. They provide a special fusion of learning, humor, and challenge.
Why Great Escape VIC Is the Better Choice for Groups
We don’t just offer escape rooms — we craft immersive, story-driven experiences that challenge and excite. Our team has experience running sessions for corporate teams, school groups, and special events. Plus:
- We provide custom packages for large groups
- Flexible weekday bookings available for businesses
- Optional extras: catering, meeting rooms, and more
- Staff facilitators on hand to ensure smooth coordination
- Conveniently located in Victoria with ample parking
