The Squid Game
My Hilariously Short-Lived Run at Squid Game: The Experience in NYC
If you’ve ever watched Squid Game and thought, I could totally survive this, let me tell you—reality hits different.
I recently went to Squid Game: The Experience at Manhattan Mall (100 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10001), ready to embrace my inner contestant. I had visions of making it through every round, maybe even winning, but the universe had other plans for me.
The Glass Bridge Challenge: Where My Journey (Quickly) Ended
The first challenge was a real-life version of the infamous Glass Bridge from the show. But instead of pure luck, this version was more of a memory game—players had to watch the pattern before stepping forward. Sounds easy, right? Yeah… no.
I stood at the edge, hyping myself up. “You got this,” I thought. “Just channel your main character energy.”
Spoiler alert: I did not have this.
Since I was there to film my experience, I was obviously trying to do that as well—multitasking at its finest. I confidently took my first step… safe. Second step… also safe. “Okay, I might actually have a shot,” I thought. And then, on step three? BOOM. Eliminated. Just like that.
I didn’t even have time to strategize or fully process what had happened. One wrong move, and I was done. It was so absurd that I burst out laughing before the “guards” could even escort me away. My Squid Game journey lasted approximately 20 seconds. Iconic.
The Games Must Go On
Thankfully, elimination isn’t as brutal as in the show. Even after getting out, all players can continue through the remaining rounds, which honestly took a lot of the pressure off. I got to play out the full experience, minus the stress of actual competition. And let’s be real—after my tragic bridge performance, I had already accepted my fate.
The games were so well done, with just the right mix of nostalgia, intensity, and ridiculousness. I may not have been a finalist, but I had a blast pretending I was still in the running.
Red Light - Green Light
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Red Light - Green Light 🔴
The VIP Bar: Where the Real Winners Go
After the games, I made my way to the VIP Bar—a secret lounge straight out of the show, minus the creepy masked millionaires betting on us. The moody red lighting, plush decor, and sleek ambiance made it feel like a hidden speakeasy. I grabbed a soju cocktail, kicked back, and watched other contestants talk strategy like we were really in the competition.
Final Verdict
If you’re in NYC and looking for a unique, chaotic, and ridiculously fun outing, Squid Game: The Experience is 100% worth it. Whether you’re playing to win or just there for the vibes (and the bar), you’re guaranteed a good time. Just… maybe don’t try to film and play at the same time.
