Editors note: This is a ‘living post’ that we update each year with the new calendars, so check back again next year for updates!

If you’re looking for a change from the usual choccy advent calendars this year, then look no further than the KOSMOS EXIT advent calendars! It’s been our go to every year since they were released.

And with so many available now, we’re here to help you choose! So here’s our handy (spoiler-free) summary of all the EXIT advent calendars released in the UK so far (and what we like about each one!).

But first…

What are EXIT Advent Calendars?

The EXIT series is an award winning series of one shot  ‘escape-room’ puzzle games in a small box. EXIT advent calendars take the DNA of the EXIT games in daily puzzle form but with an overarching story. Each day you read a short chapter, setting the scene, and open an advent door to a room with a unique puzzle. To progress, you need to solve the puzzle and get a 3-digit code, that translates to your directions to the next door. There’s hints if you get stuck, and a way to crosscheck that you have the right door before opening it (which avoids spoilers). Pretty clever stuff!

The advent calendars are all classed as ‘beginner’ – and they are a good entry point to the EXIT style puzzles, but there are some days that are trickier than others – even for seasoned EXIT professionals like us!

Now, let’s dive into the different versions! (Listed in date order, starting with most recent).

The Intergalactic Race (EXIT Advent Calendar #5, 2025)

What’s it about?

Everyone across the cosmos is talking about Le Mond – a huge intergalactic race across the galaxy! The winner gets fame, honour, and the opportunity to host the most out-of-this-world Christmas party FOREVER!

Everyone wants to win – including you and your ragtag team. Can you make it to the end of the advent calendar to stand on that winner’s podium?

Our verdict:

You’ll have to come back and see after we’ve completed it this year! I’m looking forward to seeing how they blend racing, sci-fi (which Matt loves) and Christmas!

The Missing Hollywood Star (EXIT Advent Calendar #4, 2024)

What’s it about?

You’re a part time pizza delivery driver, and tonight’s your lucky night! You’re delivering pizza to a studio filming the next big Christmas blockbuster, and you’re hoping to get an autograph from the star of the film. But when you arrive, the set is dark and deserted, with no-one in sight. There are, however, spooky footprints in the fake snow leading through the wall of the set.

Where is everyone? Can you solve the mystery, find the Hollywood star and save the Christmas blockbuster? 

Our verdict:

We LOVED this one! I think this is my second favourite – and the only reason it didn’t make first is because I found the ending a tad too obvious. If you’re a film fan and love pop culture references, or want to avoid a Santa-centred storyline, this is the one for you!

The Silent Storm (EXIT Advent Calendar #3, 2023)

What’s it about?

As one of the chief toymakers in Santa’s workshop, you’ve been working hard during the busy lead up to Christmas. You’re finishing off a beautiful rocking horse when suddenly the ground trembles and a sudden storm kicks up outside, whirling snow through the windows of the workshop. You run to close the window, and it’s then you hear the doors click and lock shut. You realise that you’re completely alone.  And it’s quiet, too quiet.

Where is everyone? You need to find Santa and figure out what’s going on – Christmas is at stake!

Our verdict:

This has been our favourite EXIT advent calendar to date, it was so good! It’s our top pick for families and people who love the Santa side of Christmas. If you like Arthur Christmas, this calendar will be your vibe. 

The Hunt for the Golden Book (EXIT Advent Calendar #2)

What’s it about?

Oh no! Santa’s golden book is missing, a book full of everyone’s Christmas wishes – and he’s tasked you to hunt it down. If you don’t get it back, there’ll be no presents from Santa on Christmas morning!

Your search takes you to a snowy mountain village in the middle of nowhere. You can instantly tell there’s something odd about this place. Can you track down the thief, find the golden book, and save Christmas? 

Our verdict:

This one also has that classic festive feel – more so than the first advent calendar – so it’s perfect for people who prefer that more traditional festive Christmas feeling. This would be our second choice to recommend to families (after The Silent Storm).

Note: The Golden Book has a printing issue for the 8th December puzzle. Explaining it goes into spoiler territory, but if you’re doing this calendar you can find more information about it online.

The Mystery of the Ice Caves (EXIT Advent Calendar #1)

What’s it about?

You thought you were going on a nice, relaxing pre-Christmas ski trip, but it does NOT go to plan. While out enjoying the mountain scenery, an avalanche comes crashing down towards you! You do your best to outrun the crashing snow, and end up taking shelter in an ice cave; unfortunately, the avalanche covers the exit – you’re trapped! Can you find a way out and uncover the mysteries of the caves?

Our verdict:

This was a strong start for the first EXIT Advent Calendar! Not our favourite of the series, but overall good fun and an option for people who would prefer a more icy, wintery theme – there are Christmassy references, but it’s not as in-your-face Santa as some of the calendars that followed.