'Actors' jump at the chance to flee reality

In addition to the set designs and costumes, Zhao was attracted to Wild Story of a Wilder Town by the nonplayable characters, or NPCs－escape room staff members who often advance the plot by voicing scripted lines or assisting the main participants.

Wild Story of a Wilder Town, which is produced by Storm Island, a company based in Beijing offering immersive escape room experiences, has become a hit since it was launched at the end of 2020.

Both thriller and comedy, the game plays out against the backdrop of the US Civil War, with the NPCs leading the main participants in experiencing fun and excitement, including a gun duel, target shooting and using a lasso.

Zhao said: "NPCs are crucial for escape room games, especially those involving storylines and numerous characters. They lead the main participants－such as ourselves－into the game and act their own roles, helping us get into our parts. Their acting skills bring us a sense of reality, allowing us to better experience the game."