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What Technology Is Required to Build an Escape Room?

Over the past few years, escape rooms have exploded in popularity around the country.

All you need is a small group of friends to have a thrilling evening of puzzles, problem-solving, and adventure.

But, not everyone knows about the technology behind an escape room (or how it works).

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know.

Simple Mechanisms 

During the early days of escape rooms, the most common forms of technology were locked boxes, magnets, padlocks, etc.

This allowed (or rather forced) escape room developers to get very creative with their game ideas since they were particularly limited in what they could allow players to do.

Today, this technology is still present, but it’s used mainly in a supportive role alongside more complicated technology.

This includes…

Electronics

Electronic locks, sensors, and light/sound systems provide virtually endless possibilities when it comes to developing an escape room scenario.

Doors can be programmed to open under certain circumstances, panels on walls can slide back to reveal clues, and lights can be used to create a particular atmosphere.

The automation of electronic devices accomplishes two tasks:

  • It allows developers to create a game setting that is far more immersive for the players
  • It prevents moderators and operators from having to become too involved in the scenario

Less interaction from escape room employees leads to an experience that demands more problem-solving and teamwork. This, of course, creates a more enjoyable session.

Smart Technology

In addition to both traditional and electronic mechanisms, escape rooms also incorporate smart technology.

As the game progresses, the technology in the room is programmed to know what events should be triggered next.

Certain puzzles only become solvable once the participants have found a certain clue, and the game’s advancement is more or less handled entirely by a computer in escape rooms that extensively use smart technology.

Smart technology can also be used to control lights, sounds, or even receive voice commands.

For example, a door or box might unlock if it recognizes a player saying a password they obtained from a clue.

What Technology Can We Expect To See?

As time goes on, rooms that use smart technology will get more efficient, leading to less and less involvement from moderators.

Augmented reality is also something to keep an eye out for, as this will add a significant amount of depth to both gameplay and plot when it’s incorporated.

So, expect to see escape rooms get much smarter and more intuitive in the future.

Understanding the Technology of an Escape Room Can Seem Difficult

But it doesn’t have to be.

With the above information about an escape room in mind, you’ll be well on your way to understanding all that goes on behind the scenes.

Want to learn more about business technology? Check out our blog for plenty of useful information.