A new entertainment venue is set to open this summer in Bow, transforming a former rock shop into a place for game enthusiasts.

Curtis Joyner and Justin Sheils, driven by their passion for puzzles and gaming, purchased the property that formerly sold gemstones and crystals last month and are now converting it into an escape room.

When the 3,200-square-foot property, located right off the intersection of I-89 and I-90, came up for sale, Joyner said they knew it was the perfect location for their new venture.

“We liked the idea of being someplace where you can get people passing it every day. So it just gets in the forefront of their mind,” Joyner explained, highlighting the strategic choice of the Bow location.

The ground floor will feature an immersive escape room, complete with swing doors and a distinctive gun cutout, hinting at the heist-themed adventure that awaits. Upstairs, visitors will find a dedicated area for card and puzzle games, and other gaming activities.

The business partners from Hillsborough’s individual interests drew them to the concept of escape rooms. Sheils has spent the majority of his life working in improv and theatre, bringing a strong creative background to their partnership that helps in storytelling. On the other hand, Joyner is an audio technician, providing their team with a solid technical foundation.

“It just kind of fit the style of business that we could run and operate successfully together,” said Joyner. “Justin has always been big on puzzles, I have too.”

While one escape room is running, they also plan to offer a game room rental. This will provide a space for people to play games like Dungeons and Dragons and Pathfinder, complete with access to sound effects libraries to enhance the experience.

Joyner said one standout feature of their escape room is the integrated role of the game master.

Instead of observing from a separate room and providing hints, the game master will be integrated into the experience, actively participating in the room as a teammate.

“That’s going to be a big part that stands out to be more of a theatrical experience to bring in instead of just asking for hints,” said Joyner.

With a hopeful opening date in mid-July, Joyner and Sheils are working hard to complete the space. They’re planning on having a launch event featuring food trucks and various activities.

“We do have a handful of things that are kind of in line,” said Joyner. “It’s a pretty tight timeline but we are excited.”