The Elevator Game: a ritual to go to another world

The Elevator Game is an urban legend and ritual that has gained notoriety, particularly through social media platforms like Reddit, TikTok and YouTube. Originating in South Korea, the game is said to allow players to access a parallel reality by following a specific sequence of actions while riding an elevator alone, typically in a building with at least ten floors.

To participate in the Elevator Game, players must adhere to a strict set of rules:

1. Enter an elevator alone. Ideally, this should be done late at night, around 3 AM, to minimize interruptions.

2. Floor Sequence: Ride the elevator in the following order without exiting:

- 4th floor

- 2nd floor

- 6th floor

- 2nd floor

- 10th floor

- 5th floor

3. Upon reaching the 5th floor, a mysterious young woman is expected to enter the elevator. Players must not look at or speak to her, as engaging with her can lead to dire consequences, including being trapped in the alternate reality.

4. After reaching the 5th floor, press the button for the 1st floor. If the elevator descends, the player has not entered the other world and must exit immediately without looking back. If it ascends to the 10th floor, the player is believed to have successfully entered a parallel dimension.

## The Other World

Upon arrival at the 10th floor, players report a dark, eerie environment devoid of life, often with a red cross visible outside the windows. Electronic devices may malfunction, and players are advised to remain aware of their surroundings to avoid becoming lost or trapped.

### Returning Home

To return to the original world, players must find the same elevator they used to enter the alternate reality and follow the same sequence of floors in reverse. It is crucial to avoid allowing the elevator to return to the 10th floor during this process, as doing so can result in being trapped in the other realm indefinitely.

## Cultural Context

The Elevator Game reflects a modern fascination with urban legends and the supernatural, drawing parallels to ancient myths that warn against engaging with the unknown. The game's rules and the presence of the mysterious woman echo cultural fears surrounding strangers and the consequences of curiosity. Despite skepticism, the allure of the game continues to captivate thrill-seekers and those intrigued by the possibility of alternate realities.

##The day after

After playing The Elevator Game, reactions can vary significantly, often influenced by the player's belief in the supernatural and the game's eerie premise.

Many players experience heightened fear and anxiety during and after the game. The atmosphere created by the game—especially the presence of the mysterious woman—can lead to feelings of paranoia. Players often report a lingering sense of dread, fearing they might have inadvertently summoned something sinister or that they could be followed by the woman or other entities.

Some participants describe feelings of disorientation upon entering the supposed parallel world. Reports include confusion about their surroundings, malfunctioning electronic devices, and an overwhelming sense of isolation. Players often feel trapped in a sterile, dark environment, which can lead to panic attacks or a sense of hopelessness.

Due to the game's unsettling nature, many players are hesitant to discuss their experiences. They may feel embarrassed or fear ridicule, especially if they believe they encountered something paranormal. This reluctance can lead to a sense of solitude, as they may feel they cannot share their fears with others.

For some, the experience can have long-lasting psychological effects. Players might report ongoing anxiety about elevators or dark places, and some even claim to feel watched or haunted after the game. These effects can lead to a reluctance to use elevators or visit multi-story buildings in the future.

Conclusion

Being alone in the elevator at an odd hour, such as 3 am, amplifies feelings of isolation. Players describe a sense of vulnerability, knowing they are in a confined space with no one to help them if something goes wrong. This isolation can lead to a feeling of being trapped, both physically in the elevator and psychologically in the game's narrative.

Once the elevator reaches the 10th floor, players shift to a dark, empty environment and many report a sense of ignorance about their surroundings. The malfunctioning of electronic devices, such as phones, adds to this disorientation, making it difficult for players to maintain their bearings.

Players of The Elevator Game often describe feelings of tension, isolation, disorientation, fear, and claustrophobia while in the elevator, contributing to an overall chilling experience.