If you’re into the escape room or horror scene in the Southern California area, chances are you’ve heard of Cross Roads Escape Games. Opened in January 2016 by husband and wife team Luke and Madison Rhoades, Cross Roads Escape Games quickly cemented itself as one of the most innovative AND impressive escape room destinations on the planet. Now, after many years of adding new games and branching out into immersive theater, Luke and Madison are embarking on a new adventure: axe throwing.

Now, I know what you’re thinking; why is HorrorBuzz writing about an axe-throwing business? Well, when the team behind it is known for their incredible work in our community, of course we’re going to help spread the world. And to make it even more enticing? It’s going to be a retro horror-movie-themed creepy cabin in the woods!

You heard that right. Horror. Themed. Axe. Throwing. WE’RE SOLD!

Coming later this year, SLASHERS Axe Throwing & Ales will be opening in Costa Mesa, CA! And while there is already a dirge of these types of places, the Cross Roads team is upping the ante to make the experience more immersive for everyone by using theatrics, special effects, and even a story to the entire thing.

“I see axe throwing the same as I saw escape rooms six years ago: a fun and great idea, but lacking in immersive sets and theatrical elements,” said Madison Rhoades. “We plan to take SLASHERS Axe Throwing & Ales to the same elevated level as Cross Roads Escape Games.”

The axe throwing area of SLASHERS looks like a dark forest outside a spooky cabin, with animatronic animals watching you from the trees. Your hosts, all dressed as camp counselors, will be there to keep everything in line, while also delivering more of the story.

In addition, there will be a beer bar area that represents the inside of the cabin, with an immersive atmosphere, show moments, special effects, and themed drinks. I know some people might be concerned about combining booze and sharp objects, however, the sport is incredibly safe! Not only do other places operate just like this, but the team has steps in place to ensure the safety of their guests, such as:

  • No open-toed shoes
  • Detailed briefing on rules, safety, and more upon the start of each session
  • Each lane is protected by wire mesh fencing
  • Intoxicated patrons will be prohibited from throwing axes
  • No alcohol allowed in throwing areas

I’m not going to lie to you, axe throwing really isn’t my thing, but I’ll be damned if I won’t be one of the first in line to try SLASHERS. Madison and Luke have done some incredible work over the years, and this just seems like the next natural step for them. I am VERY excited for this…and even extra excited that it is opening in my town!

An opening date has yet to be set, but they aim to open later this year. For more information, visit them online at www.SlashersAxeThrowing.com or on Instagram.

 

About the Author

Jeff Heimbuch writes. A lot. On a variety of things and in different mediums. He also created the fiction podcasts LIGHT HOUSE and RETURN HOME (of which you can find both on all podcasting platforms), loves all things horror, works in social media, and is probably writing something right now. You can find him on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok at @jeffheimbuch.