# Corporate Environments

## Overview
Corporate office environments form the foundation of Break Escape scenarios. These spaces are relatable, versatile, and mirror real-world penetration testing targets. From small startups to massive enterprises, office buildings provide the perfect blend of social engineering opportunities, technical challenges, and investigative gameplay.

## Standard Office Room Types

### Reception / Entry

**Primary Purpose**: Scenario introduction, access control, initial NPC interactions

#### Standard Features
- **Reception desk** with NPC receptionist
- **Waiting area** with seating
- **Security checkpoint** (may require bypass)
- **Company branding** - posters, displays, literature
- **Access control systems** - visitor logs, badge printer
- **Elevator or stairwell access** to other floors
- **Directory board** showing office layout

#### Security Elements
- **Locked main doors** (keycard, PIN, or unlocked during business hours)
- **Security cameras** (visible deterrents or hidden monitoring)
- **Guard on duty** (sometimes, depending on company size)
- **Visitor management system** (check-in logs, temporary badges)
- **Intercom or buzzer system**
- **After-hours alarm system**

#### Typical Puzzles
- **Social engineering receptionist** for building access
- **Forging visitor credentials** or badges
- **Distracting guard** with phone call or emergency
- **Accessing visitor logs** to find employee names
- **Bypassing after-hours security** (lockpicking, code finding)
- **Tailgating legitimate employees** during business hours
- **Cloning access badges** from captured footage

#### Environmental Storytelling
- Company promotional materials reveal business focus
- Visitor logs show suspicious meeting patterns
- Security camera blind spots indicate insider knowledge
- Employee directory provides social engineering targets
- Award plaques and achievements establish company pride
- Recent renovations or construction indicate growth/decline

#### Design Variations

**Small Startup Reception**
- Informal, open layout
- No dedicated security
- Keypad entry or buzzer system
- Company swag on display
- Casual atmosphere

**Mid-Size Business Reception**
- Professional receptionist
- Basic security (cameras, locked doors)
- Visitor badge system
- Corporate branding present
- Structured but approachable

**Enterprise Corporation Lobby**
- Security guard station
- Turnstiles or security gates
- Multiple camera angles
- Visitor screening procedures
- Austere, professional atmosphere
- Possibly metal detectors or bag checks

---

### Standard Office

**Primary Purpose**: Investigation, document discovery, computer access

#### Standard Features
- **Desk** with computer workstation
- **Filing cabinets** (2-4 drawers)
- **Personal effects** - photos, calendars, plant
- **Whiteboards or cork boards** with notes
- **Office supplies** - staplers, pens, paper
- **Bookshelves** with manuals and references
- **Trash bin** with potentially useful discarded items
- **Desk drawers** (some locked, some accessible)

#### Security Elements
- **Locked office door** (key, keycard, or PIN)
- **Password-protected computer** (sticky note nearby?)
- **Locked drawers** containing sensitive files
- **Security cameras** monitoring the area
- **Badge reader** for high-security offices
- **Biometric lock** for senior positions

#### Typical Puzzles
- **Finding passwords** on sticky notes, calendars, photos
- **Accessing locked drawers** via key or lockpicking
- **Reading emails and documents** for intelligence
- **Fingerprint dusting** on keyboards for password hints
- **Social engineering office occupant** for information
- **Searching filing cabinets** for evidence
- **Analyzing calendar appointments** for patterns

#### Environmental Storytelling
- **Personal photos** reveal relationships and potential leverage
- **Messy vs. organized** indicates personality type
- **Work-life balance indicators** (overtime, stress signs)
- **Technical books** show skill level and specialization
- **Awards or certifications** establish expertise
- **Sticky notes** reveal priorities, concerns, secrets
- **Trash contents** show recently discarded information

#### Interactable Objects Checklist
- [ ] Computer (password-protected, contains emails/files)
- [ ] Filing cabinet (2-4 drawers, some locked)
- [ ] Desk drawers (small items, keys, notes)
- [ ] Whiteboard/cork board (visible information)
- [ ] Photos or personal items (character details)
- [ ] Trash bin (discarded but recoverable info)
- [ ] Phone (voicemail messages, call logs)
- [ ] Calendar or planner (appointments, codes)

#### Design Variations

**Junior Employee Office**
- Smaller space, sometimes shared
- Basic computer setup
- Minimal personal effects
- Standard security (locked door, password)
- Less valuable intelligence

**Mid-Level Manager Office**
- Private office, moderate size
- Better furnishings
- More personal touches
- Moderate security (keycard access)
- Departmental information

**Senior Employee Office**
- Larger private office
- Quality furnishings and decor
- Meeting area within office
- Higher security (PIN + keycard)
- Valuable intelligence and access credentials

---

### Executive Office

**Primary Purpose**: High-value targets, advanced security, critical intelligence

#### Standard Features
- **Large executive desk** with premium computer
- **Safe or secure cabinet** for critical documents
- **Meeting area** with table and chairs
- **Expensive furnishings** indicating status
- **Window with view** (if exterior office)
- **Personal artifacts** revealing character
- **Extensive filing systems**
- **Liquor cabinet or mini-bar** (for some executives)
- **Awards, diplomas, and accolades** on walls

#### Security Elements
- **Multiple lock types** (door + safe + computer)
- **Biometric scanner** (fingerprint or retinal)
- **Alarm system** connected to security
- **Hidden compartments** in furniture
- **Panic button** for emergencies
- **Security camera** with direct security feed
- **Two-factor authentication** on systems
- **Executive protection** (personal bodyguard in high-threat scenarios)

#### Typical Puzzles
- **Multi-stage access** (get to office, then open safe, then access computer)
- **Complex password schemes** (long passwords, 2FA)
- **Fingerprint spoofing** using lifted prints
- **Safe cracking** (combination discovery or bypass)
- **Hidden evidence** in plain sight (art, books, decor)
- **Executive calendar** showing secret meetings
- **Private communication channels** (encrypted messaging)
- **Blackmail material discovery** (compromising photos, documents)

#### Environmental Storytelling
- **Office size and position** show company hierarchy
- **Art and decor choices** reveal personality and wealth
- **Family photos** suggest personal life and potential leverage
- **Trophy displays** show achievements and ego
- **Reading materials** indicate interests and values
- **Hidden items** suggest secretive nature
- **Office cleanliness** indicates control vs. chaos
- **Technology choices** (latest gadgets vs. traditional tools)

#### High-Value Intelligence
Executive offices typically contain:
- **Strategic plans** and business roadmaps
- **Financial records** and projections
- **Confidential HR information**
- **Board meeting minutes**
- **Merger and acquisition plans**
- **Executive communications** with ENTROPY (if compromised)
- **Access credentials** to highest security systems

#### Design Variations

**CEO/Founder Office**
- Corner office, maximum prestige
- Personal branding throughout
- Company history displays
- Highest security
- Strategic intelligence
- Direct access to board communications

**CFO Office**
- Financial data and systems
- Budget documents
- Accounting software access
- Safe with financial records
- Evidence of financial crimes (if compromised)

**CTO Office**
- Technical schematics and plans
- Advanced computer systems
- R&D project information
- Prototypes or models
- Technical documentation
- System architecture diagrams

**Compromised Executive Office**
- ENTROPY communication evidence
- Hidden encrypted devices
- Dual-purpose equipment
- Dead drop instructions
- Suspicious burn bags or shredders
- Signs of counter-surveillance

---

### IT Office / Workspace

**Primary Purpose**: Technical tools, helpful NPCs, equipment storage

#### Standard Features
- **Multiple workstations** (3-6 computers)
- **Technical equipment** - cables, adapters, tools
- **Documentation and manuals** for company systems
- **Testing equipment** - network analyzers, etc.
- **Spare parts and supplies** - drives, keyboards, etc.
- **Tool cabinets** with specialized equipment
- **Help desk phone** or ticket system
- **Whiteboard** with network diagrams or tasks
- **Server or network equipment** (in smaller organizations)

#### Security Elements
- **Moderate security** (protects tools, not secrets)
- **Tool inventory systems** (check-out logs)
- **Locked supply cabinets**
- **Badge reader** for controlled access
- **Computer passwords** (often written down due to help desk needs)

#### Typical Puzzles
- **Social engineering IT staff** for assistance or access
- **Borrowing or "requisitioning" tools** for other puzzles
- **Accessing IT documentation** (network layouts, system configs)
- **Finding admin credentials** (often poorly secured)
- **Reading help desk tickets** for security issues
- **Network diagrams** revealing infrastructure
- **Unused equipment** that can be repurposed

#### Helpful NPCs
IT offices often contain the most helpful NPCs:
- **Junior IT tech** - eager to help, may overshare
- **System administrator** - knows everything, suspicious of outsiders
- **Help desk operator** - focused on tickets, easily distracted
- **Security-minded IT** - potential ally or obstacle

#### Environmental Storytelling
- **Cable chaos** indicates understaffing or poor management
- **Energy drink cans** suggest overwork and crunch time
- **Personal projects** show tech interests
- **Humor and decorations** indicate team culture
- **Old equipment** suggests budget constraints
- **Security certifications** indicate awareness (or lack thereof)

#### Design Variations

**Small Company IT (1-2 person team)**
- Cramped space, double duty
- Informal organization
- Easier to social engineer
- Less security protocols
- Personal relationship with all employees

**Enterprise IT Department**
- Large open workspace
- Specialized roles (network, security, desktop support)
- Formal procedures
- Higher security awareness
- Departmental politics

**Security Operations Center (SOC)**
- Multiple monitoring screens
- 24/7 operation
- High security
- Alert systems and dashboards
- Difficult to infiltrate or social engineer

---

### Conference Room

**Primary Purpose**: Meetings, presentations, collaborative evidence

#### Standard Features
- **Large conference table** (6-12 seats)
- **Presentation screen** or projector
- **Whiteboards** with diagrams and notes
- **Speakerphone** for remote meetings
- **Calendar system** showing meeting schedules
- **Leftover materials** from previous meetings
- **Flip charts** with strategy notes
- **A/V equipment** and controls

#### Security Elements
- **Usually minimal** (unless executive boardroom)
- **May be locked** outside meeting times
- **Calendar-controlled access** (reserved rooms)
- **Surveillance** in high-security conference rooms
- **Sound dampening** for confidential meetings

#### Typical Puzzles
- **Reading whiteboard information** left from meetings
- **Discovering meeting notes** and agendas
- **Finding presentation files** on computer system
- **Calendar-based PIN codes** (meeting room number + date)
- **Recovering partially erased whiteboards**
- **Listening to meeting recordings** (if recorded)
- **Analyzing meeting attendee lists** for patterns

#### Environmental Storytelling
- **Whiteboard contents** reveal current projects and concerns
- **Leftover food or drinks** indicate recent use
- **Meeting calendar** shows organizational priorities
- **Presentation materials** expose strategies
- **Seating arrangements** suggest hierarchy
- **Locked boardroom** signals high-value meetings

#### Design Variations

**Standard Meeting Room**
- Modest size, basic equipment
- General use by all employees
- Low security
- Informational value varies

**Executive Boardroom**
- Premium furnishings
- Advanced A/V setup
- High security (limited access)
- Strategic intelligence
- Often contains safe or secure storage

**War Room / Crisis Center**
- Dedicated purpose (project team, incident response)
- Covered with diagrams and plans
- 24/7 access for team
- High concentration of intelligence
- May contain crisis response equipment

---

### Server Room (In Corporate Settings)

**Primary Purpose**: Technical challenges, VM access, critical infrastructure

#### Standard Features
- **Server racks** (2-10 racks depending on company size)
- **Network equipment** (switches, routers, firewalls)
- **Cooling systems** (AC units, fans)
- **Workstation** for system administration
- **Access logs** (physical and digital)
- **Cable management** systems
- **Fire suppression system**
- **Backup power** (UPS, generator connections)
- **Environmental monitoring** (temperature, humidity)

#### Security Elements
- **Restricted access** (high-level credentials required)
- **Badge reader** and PIN combination
- **Biometric scanner** (in high-security environments)
- **Environmental controls** (temperature alarms)
- **Surveillance cameras** (multiple angles)
- **Alarm systems** for unauthorized access
- **Man-trap entry** (double-door system)
- **Access logs** that track all entries

#### Typical Puzzles
- **Gaining authorized access** credentials
- **VM exploitation** from terminal
- **Log analysis** for intrusion evidence
- **Network traffic investigation**
- **Physical access** to specific servers
- **Bypassing two-factor access** controls
- **Social engineering** for emergency access

#### Environmental Storytelling
- **Cable labeling** (or lack thereof) shows organization
- **Dust accumulation** indicates maintenance schedule
- **Sticky notes on equipment** with warnings or IPs
- **Post-it passwords** on monitors (security failure)
- **Hardware age** shows investment in infrastructure
- **Cooling effectiveness** (hot room = struggling infrastructure)

#### High-Value Intelligence
- Network architecture and topology
- Server purposes and data storage
- Backup systems and schedules
- Security logs and alerts
- VPN and remote access configuration
- ENTROPY backdoors (if compromised)

#### Design Variations

**Small Business Server Closet**
- Converted closet or small room
- 1-2 racks, basic equipment
- Minimal cooling
- Lower security
- Often doubles as storage

**Mid-Size Server Room**
- Dedicated room
- Multiple racks
- Proper environmental controls
- Moderate security
- Professional cable management

**Enterprise Data Center**
- Large facility
- Rows of equipment
- Advanced cooling and power
- High security (biometrics, man-traps)
- Dedicated staff
- Hot/cold aisle containment

---

### Storage / Archives

**Primary Purpose**: Historical documents, old equipment, hidden evidence

#### Standard Features
- **Filing systems** (old cabinets, boxes)
- **Cardboard boxes** with archived materials
- **Old computer equipment** and electronics
- **Backup drives and tapes**
- **Abandoned projects** and prototypes
- **Cleaning supplies** (if also janitorial)
- **Shelving units** packed with materials
- **Document destruction equipment** (shredders)

#### Security Elements
- **Basic locks** (often neglected)
- **Dust and disorganization** (natural deterrent)
- **Forgotten security measures**
- **Minimal surveillance** (low-priority area)
- **Sometimes unlocked** (low perceived value)

#### Typical Puzzles
- **Searching through files** for specific documents
- **Recovering old backups** with historical data
- **Finding hidden compartments** behind boxes
- **Piecing together shredded documents**
- **Accessing forgotten equipment**
- **Discovering archived evidence** of past crimes
- **Dating documents** to establish timelines

#### Environmental Storytelling
- **Organization level** shows company record-keeping
- **What's archived vs. destroyed** reveals priorities
- **Personal items** stored by departed employees
- **Old company materials** show history and evolution
- **Dust and decay** indicate neglect
- **Hidden valuables** suggest someone's secret stash

#### Hidden Value
Storage areas often contain overlooked intelligence:
- Old employee files with useful information
- Historical records showing patterns
- Abandoned projects that ENTROPY revived
- Forgotten passwords and access codes
- Evidence of previous security incidents
- Backup systems no longer monitored

---

### Break Room / Kitchen

**Primary Purpose**: NPC encounters, casual eavesdropping, hidden evidence

#### Standard Features
- **Kitchen appliances** (microwave, fridge, coffee maker)
- **Tables and seating**
- **Vending machines** (snacks, drinks)
- **Notice boards** with announcements
- **Lost and found** box
- **Trash and recycling bins**
- **Communal supplies** (dishes, utensils)
- **Water cooler** (classic gossip spot)

#### Security Elements
- **None typically** (open to all employees)
- **Cameras sometimes** (to prevent theft)

#### Typical Puzzles
- **Overhearing NPC conversations** about suspicious activities
- **Finding discarded evidence** in trash bins
- **Reading personal notes** left on notice board
- **Accessing lost and found** for forgotten badges/keys
- **Social engineering** in casual environment
- **Calendar events** posted on notice board
- **Emergency contact list** with employee phone numbers

#### Environmental Storytelling
- **Food choices** indicate company culture and budget
- **Cleanliness** shows respect for shared space
- **Personal items** in fridge with names
- **Notice board content** reveals company events and concerns
- **Complaints** about facilities or management
- **Social dynamics** visible through NPC interactions

#### NPC Encounters
Break rooms are perfect for:
- Casual conversations that reveal information
- Suspicious employees meeting covertly
- Overheard arguments about company issues
- Friendly employees willing to help
- ENTROPY agents passing information

---

### Bathroom / Utility Spaces

**Primary Purpose**: Hidden routes, eavesdropping, unexpected discoveries

#### Standard Features
- **Standard bathroom amenities**
- **Air vents** (potential access routes)
- **Maintenance panels** (hidden access to infrastructure)
- **Trash bins** (discarded evidence)
- **Mirror writing** or graffiti (employee messages)

#### Security Elements
- **None typically**
- **Sometimes locked** in high-security facilities

#### Typical Puzzles
- **Air vent access** to adjacent rooms
- **Maintenance panels** leading to crawl spaces
- **Discarded evidence** in trash
- **Hidden messages** in unexpected places
- **Overhearing conversations** in adjacent offices

#### Design Notes
- Use sparingly (not every scenario needs bathroom)
- Can provide atmosphere and realism
- Unexpected intelligence sources
- Alternate route opportunities

---

## Corporate Environment Variations

### Tech Startup
**Atmosphere**: Casual, innovative, sometimes chaotic
- Open floor plans
- Standing desks and bean bags
- Game consoles and break areas
- Whiteboards everywhere
- Craft beer in fridge
- Poor security culture (speed over security)

**Scenario Hooks**:
- New app with security vulnerabilities
- ENTROPY infiltrating for IP theft
- Naive founders targeted for manipulation
- Disgruntled employee selling secrets

### Financial Institution
**Atmosphere**: Professional, secure, high-pressure
- Formal dress code
- High security throughout
- Trading floors with multiple screens
- Strict access controls
- Compliance-focused
- Valuable financial data

**Scenario Hooks**:
- Insider trading investigation
- Market manipulation schemes
- Account data exfiltration
- ENTROPY targeting wealth management

### Consulting Firm
**Atmosphere**: Client-focused, professional, minimal personalization
- Generic office layouts
- Hot-desking (non-permanent spaces)
- Client meeting rooms
- Traveling employees
- High turnover areas

**Scenario Hooks**:
- ENTROPY using consulting as cover
- Infiltrating client organizations
- Stealing proprietary methodologies
- Double agent consultants

### Law Firm
**Atmosphere**: Professional, confidential, document-heavy
- Partner vs. associate office hierarchy
- Extensive filing systems
- Conference rooms for client meetings
- High confidentiality requirements
- Document retention policies

**Scenario Hooks**:
- Client information theft
- Blackmail material discovery
- Corporate espionage via legal access
- Compromised attorney-client privilege

---

## Design Checklist for Corporate Environments

When designing a corporate scenario location:

- [ ] **Entry point** established (reception, parking garage, side entrance)
- [ ] **3-5 standard offices** with varied security levels
- [ ] **1 executive or high-value office** for climactic access
- [ ] **IT or technical space** for equipment and helpful NPCs
- [ ] **Server room or high-security area** for technical challenges
- [ ] **Common areas** (break room, conference room) for NPC encounters
- [ ] **Support spaces** (storage, bathrooms) for alternate routes
- [ ] **Security progression** from low to high across layout
- [ ] **Multiple puzzle types** (physical, digital, social)
- [ ] **Environmental storytelling** through office details
- [ ] **NPC placement** makes logical sense for roles
- [ ] **Backtracking opportunities** for interconnected puzzles
- [ ] **Fog of war** reveals layout progressively
- [ ] **Atmosphere appropriate** to company type and tone

---

## Conclusion

Corporate environments provide the perfect foundation for Break Escape scenarios: relatable, versatile, and rich with opportunities for investigation, social engineering, and technical challenges. By thoughtfully designing office spaces with purposeful room types, logical security progression, and environmental storytelling, you create immersive experiences that teach real cyber security concepts in believable contexts.

Every corporate environment should feel like a real place where real people work - even when those people are secretly ENTROPY operatives.
