2. The Lobby

Wait for the start, learn about the game, find the starting point.

Tutorial Video

At the top of the lobby, there’s a tutorial video. We highly recommend watching it if:

  • This is your first time playing Take n Run
  • You want a refresher on how the game works
  • You have questions about gameplay
Watch While You Wait: The tutorial only takes a few minutes and will make playing much easier!

Information Sections

The lobby has expandable sections with important information. Tap on any section header to open it:

Game Info

Custom information from your organizer about:

  • How the game works
  • Special rules for this event
  • What to expect

Start Location

A map showing where the game begins. Use this to:

  • Navigate to the starting point before the game
  • Tap the Google Maps link for directions
  • Make sure you’re in the right place
Get There Early: Make sure you’re at or near the start location before the game begins. You don’t want to miss the start!

Emergency Information

Check here for important safety information, such as:

  • Emergency contact numbers
  • Organizer contact information
  • What to do if something goes wrong

Review this section carefully. You’ll want to know how to reach the organizer or emergency services if needed.

Team Information

If you’re on a team, this section shows:

  • Your team name
  • Your teammates

Help Section

Links to additional resources and help if you need it.

Game Status

Located below the information sections, a red text indicates the current state of the game:

  • Not scheduled: The game hasn’t been launched yet. Stay in the lobby until it’s ready.
  • Scheduled: Shows when the game will start. Be ready.
  • In progress: The game is live! You can now start playing.
  • Time limit reached: The game has ended. Check your results.

The status updates automatically – no need to refresh the page.

The Start Button

At the bottom of the lobby, there’s a button to begin playing:

  • Before launch: The button is disabled. Wait for the organizer to launch the game.
  • After launch: The button becomes active. Click it to enter the gameplay screen.

Self-Start Mode

In some games, your personal timer starts when you click the Start button:

  • The game must be launched by the organizer first – then you can start
  • Your stopwatch begins when YOU click Start
  • For teams, the timer starts when the first team member clicks Start
  • You’re still limited by the overall game time limit – plan accordingly!
Flexibility: Self-start mode lets you begin when you’re ready, but don’t wait too long – you still need to finish before the time limit!
Coordinate with Teammates: If you’re on a team, let your teammates know you’ve joined. The game timer starts when the first team member begins!

Messages from the Organizer

The organizer can send messages that appear on your screen. These might include:

  • Announcements about timing
  • Last-minute instructions
  • Updates about the event

Before You Start

Make sure you’re ready:

  • Location: Are you at or near the start?
  • Battery: Is your phone charged?
  • Mobile data: Do you have good mobile internet connectivity?
  • Camera: Is it working?
  • Team: Are your teammates ready?
  • Understanding: Did you watch the tutorial?
Internet Required: You need mobile internet connectivity throughout the game to submit check-ins at checkpoints. Make sure you have good signal in the playing area!

Quick Checklist:

  • Watched tutorial video
  • Read game info
  • Check the emergency information section
  • At the start location
  • Phone charged and mobile data working