How to Use Escapologist in Identity V Guide

The Identity V test server has finally introduced a brand-new survivor — Escapologist after the release of the new hunter Pedler Valentina yaga Vasiliev. This mysterious figure is loaded with tools, tricks, and tactical support skills that can confuse hunters and turn the tide of any match. If you’re curious about how his abilities work, or how to use him effectively, this guide breaks down every key mechanic based on early test server gameplay.

Escapologist is styled like a traditional escape artist, complete with chains, keys, and a scarred look. His design hints at his tricky gameplay: no shoes, Thurible tools, and the ability to move and manipulate with ease.

Skill #1: Thurible Smoke

• Mechanics: You start with two charges of a tool called “Thurible.” When thrown, it releases a smoke screen.
• Cooldown: 25 seconds cooldown after use.
• Duration: The smoke screen lasts 15 seconds.
• Radius: Outer radius is 16.9 meters; inner radius is 11.8 meters.

What it Does:

• Blocks visibility and red aura indicators inside the smoke.
• Hides survivor footprints while inside the smoke, making tracking difficult.
• After leaving the smoke, survivors will be revealed to the hunter 7 seconds later with a red highlight.
• Important: Projectiles like Warp or Ni’s harpoon can’t pass through the smoke, but dashes still work.

Skill #2: Item Pickup Interaction

• After both Thuribles are used, Escapologist can pick up items (e.g., perfumes, syringes) just like any other survivor.
• Items can only be picked up once both Thurible tools are exhausted.

Skill #3: Escape Art (Chair Transfer)

• Main Function: Allows Escapologist to teleport a chaired survivor to another chair within a 38-meter range.

How It Works:

• Press the skill button (R) to teleport a chaired survivor.
• The new chair will glow yellow for visual reference.
• Survivors must reach the chair in 11 seconds or the teleport fails.
• The skill doesn’t consume the Thurible tool.
• Cannot be used to rescue from basement chairs.
• It takes around 5 seconds to complete the transfer, giving extra time for rescue efforts.
• Chair progress still continues during transfer.
• Hunters can see the yellow chair, but cannot cancel the transfer by hitting the chair.

Passive Skill: Misdirection

• When Escapologist is hit by a normal attack (not a terror shock), he automatically teleports to a different nearby location.
• This nullifies the hunter’s attack recovery animation, letting him escape more easily.
• Limitations: This effect does not apply if he is terror shocked.
• Red or unstable ping may cause issues with activation timing.

Escapologist brings a brand-new rescue dynamic to Identity V. With his Thurible smoke and chair transfer skill, he creates confusion, breaks enemy lines of sight, and manipulates the battlefield in unique ways. While he doesn’t have strong self-sustain tools, his strengths lie in supporting teammates and saving survivors from tough situations. Mastering his timing and tool management is the key to making him shine in ranked matches. Are you planning to main Escapologist when he releases?