WW2: Hidden Symbols
A WWII-themed, escape-room–style VR experience set in the Eagle's Nest, transformed into a secret military room. Players, acting as Josephine Baker, decipher propaganda pieces from various countries to uncover Axis troop movements. A WebGL version allows browser-based exploration.
- ROLE
- Lead Unity Developer & Designer
- PLATFORMS
- VR Headsets (primary) / Browser/WebGL (adapted puzzle experiences)
My contributions
- 01
Escape Room Mechanics: Programmed puzzle sequences tied to propaganda artifacts from the US, Germany, Japan, France, and Britain.
- 02
VR Immersion & Web Transition: Implemented environment interactions in VR, then adapted them for WebGL.
- 03
Historical Context: Integrated real WWII references (e.g., D-Day, Pearl Harbor, Berlin, etc.) in puzzle solutions.
- 04
Narrative Flow: Developed a storyline where Josephine Baker gathers intel, culminating in an 'invisible ink' reveal of troop movements.
Overview
A WWII-themed, escape-room–style VR experience set in the Eagle's Nest, transformed into a secret military room. Players, acting as Josephine Baker, decipher propaganda pieces from various countries to uncover Axis troop movements. A WebGL version allows browser-based exploration of the puzzle elements and historical content.
Purpose
Teach students about WWII propaganda, key battles, and the roles played by different nations. By engaging with 'hidden symbols' and interactive artifacts, learners gain critical thinking skills about wartime messaging and history.
Core features
- 01
Propaganda Analysis: Players must interpret or choose the correct meaning behind each WWII propaganda piece.
- 02
Global Map Puzzle: Place battles (Midway, Normandy, Stalingrad, etc.) in their correct locations on a giant map floor.
- 03
Escape Room Flow: Collect 'clues' to unlock the final exit, culminating in a historical reveal.
- 04
Immersive Music & Setting: Detective vibe with period-appropriate music and sound design.
Challenges
- 01
Complex Puzzles: Balancing authenticity with approachable gameplay.
- 02
Multiple Theaters of War: Representing a global conflict without overwhelming players.
- 03
VR Interaction vs. Web Interaction: Maintaining puzzle complexity when switching from VR hand-tracking to mouse/keyboard.
- 04
Accurate Depictions of War: Ensuring sensitive topics are handled respectfully.
Solutions
- 01
Modular Puzzle Design: Created self-contained puzzle scripts easily transferable between VR and WebGL.
- 02
Curated Artifact Set: Focused on five key propaganda items rather than trying to cover all fronts in extreme detail.
- 03
Thematic Audio & Visual Cues: Guided users toward puzzle solutions without heavy text reliance.
- 04
Collaboration with Educators: Verified content for historical accuracy and sensitivity.
Accessibility
- 01
High Contrast Assets: Posters and text with bold outlines for easy visibility.
- 02
Voice Narration: Key textual clues are read aloud, assisting users with hearing or reading challenges.