Introduction

In recent years, gaming and game-like applications, such as Serious Games (SGs) and Escaperooms, have gained significant attention both in the educational and cultural heritage fields. These innovative approaches combine traditional game mechanics with educational and preservation goals, providing engaging and memorable experiences to a diverse range of participants. This paper presents a detailed exploration of how these practices can be effectively integrated to enhance learning and cultural engagement. Specifically, we will discuss the use of an augmented reality (AR) based Serous Escape Game called MillSecret, designed to engage young generations with local cultural heritage in an interactive and appealing manner.

Escape Room Games in Education and Cultural Heritage

Escape Rooms, initially popular as social entertainment activities, have increasingly found their way into educational settings. These games typically involve teams solving a series of puzzle challenges to 'escape' from a themed room or location, hence the name. The mechanics of these games are well-suited to both formal and informal learning environments, making them particularly effective for teaching complex topics, such as history and cultural subjects. In the cultural heritage field, Escape Room Games (ERGs) provide a unique opportunity to re-live and re-interpret the past, offering modern digital technologies to visitors and fostering a deeper connection with cultural assets.

MillSecret: A Multi-Player SERious Escape Game on Local Cultural Heritage

MillSecret is a multi-player SERious Escape Game (SEG) specifically designed about local cultural heritage, particularly that of watermills. Players must solve riddles and puzzles related to the historical and cultural significance of watermills, using augmented reality (AR) technology to enhance their experience. The game was designed to be conducted in an informal educational setting, leveraging the real-physical environment to provide an immersive and engaging experience.

Game Mechanics and Implementation

MillSecret combines key elements of traditional escape room games with the unique features of augmented reality. The game challenges players to explore a simulated environment, using their mobile devices to uncover clues and solve puzzles. The use of AR not only enhances the players' immersion but also allows for a seamless integration of the game environment with the real-world setting, making the experience more authentic and participatory. Players must navigate through various challenges, each linked to a piece of local history, to ultimately unlock the final challenge and 'escape.'

Player Feedback and Evaluation

Evaluation of the MillSecret game revealed several important findings. Firstly, players reported a very positive initial feedback, indicating high engagement and a strong sense of accomplishment upon completing the game. Secondly, the game's use of AR technology was well-received, enhancing the players' understanding and appreciation of the local cultural heritage. Thirdly, the informal educational context of the game proved to be highly beneficial, providing a flexible and accessible learning environment for participants of various ages and backgrounds. These findings suggest that the concept of SERious Escape Games using AR technology has significant potential in educational and cultural heritage settings.

Conclusion

The integration of SERious Escape Games with augmented reality technology offers a promising approach to engaging young generations with cultural heritage in an innovative and immersive manner. The case study of MillSecret demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of such games in both educational and informal learning contexts. Future research and development in this field will likely see the expansion of AR-based SERious Escape Games, paving the way for new and exciting opportunities to preserve and disseminate cultural heritage.