Epic Escape’s monthly board game nights are back for the first time since the business re-opened, with the first instalment so successful they almost reached capacity.

Co-owners Matt Lowe and Anne Hetherington said people had been asking about the board game nights since they opened on Commerce Street.

“The plan has always been to bring them back,” Mr Lowe said.

Ms Hetherington said she and Mr Lowe had a large collection of board games.

“We love board games, and we wanted to find likeminded people to play with,” she said.

Their first night was held on Thursday, March 27, and every seat was taken.

Those attending the free night can either pick a board game from Epic Escape’s board game library, with over 30 games, or bring their own.

“Some people come in groups and stay playing in their group, but if you come in alone or in a smaller group, we can put you with new people,” Ms Hetherington said.

She said the nights were casual social events, and the board game store is open throughout the night.

“Most of the games in our library are for sale in our store,” she said.

Many of the games played on the night are “light strategy”.

“You can pick it up in three to five minutes, but then you can start playing different strategies,” Ms Hetherington said.

Anyone wanting to sign up for the nights can book their group in via the website, www.epicescape.co.nz, or by emailing [email protected].

“It’s really helpful if people RSVP, it’s a first in first served kind of thing,” Mr Lowe said.

For the school and Easter holidays, Epic Escape will be open for extended hours from Wednesday to Sunday this week and next week but will be closed on Good Friday.

Updated availability can be found on the Epic Escape website.

They are also holding an April promotion to give customers and locals a chance to win a Virtual Reality experience for four worth $180.

Anyone can show off their Epic Escape visit, or if they have yet to play can get creative with a picture outside the Epic Escape building, and make sure to tag Epic Escape on an Instagram or Facebook story.

Those who have already played can equally leave a google review.

Each post or review is one entry, and the winner will be drawn on May 1.

Epic Escape Board Game Night
*When: Thursday, April 24, 6pm
*Where: Epic Escape, 197 Commerce Street, Whakatāne
*Cost: Free, RSVP via the website