This study analyzes the Titanic escape room project as a paradigmatic instance demonstrating a viable resolution to this challenge. Amid the rapid expansion of the experience economy and the market for location-based entertainment (LBE), the creation of high-tech immersive spaces, such as escape rooms, presents a multifaceted challenge in integrating narrative, technology, and safety. Using a single case-study methodology, the work deconstructs the project’s architecture through the prism of three theoretical constructs: the disappearing computer (calm technology) from human–computer interaction (HCI), human-in-the-loop (HITL) systems, and multilevel safety models adopted from human–robot interaction (HRI). Results indicate that seamless immersion is achieved via technological invisibility, wherein a sophisticated show-control network functions as a dynamic narrative engine. Interactivity is ensured via HITL models that actively treat the player as a system component. Narrative-directed perceived safety, separated from absolute physical safety, ensures the safety of physical effects using a multilayered architecture. The article proposes an integrated conceptual model synthesizing these approaches, discussing how it is practically meaningful when someone designs and evaluates complex interactive entertainment systems. Researchers and practitioners in engaging design, control, and human-computer interaction who design or analyze complex interactive spaces will find this paper helpful.

experience economy, immersive experience, escape room, show-control systems, human–computer interaction, calm technology, human-in-the-loop, safety of interactive systems

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