Exploring immersive technologies: creating an engaging player experience using augmented reality in escape rooms

Amidst the pandemic, escape rooms were shifted to online platforms to ensure continued access. While the inclusion of digital elements facilitated collaborative problem-solving opportunities, it did not offer complete interactivity with the puzzles and clues in the escape room. This research investigates an innovative escape room variant that integrates immersive technologies, particularly augmented reality (AR), to enhance the player experience. The study aims to analyze the immersive aspects of escape rooms and examine the factors contributing to their widespread popularity. Through an examination of user engagement and puzzle interactions, a novel escape room paradigm is created, attuned to user preferences and dedicated to enhancing player engagement. Using the EyeJack AR mobile app, players will be able to access pivotal puzzles and cues to navigate the digital escape room. The goal is to yield an augmented escape room design, enabling players to synthesize with the narrative which fosters an immersive player journey.