LAS VEGAS, NV, December 1, 2023 – At the Las Vegas Convention Center, LUMOplay, known for transforming digital displays into interactive experiences, announced a surprising twist in its lineup of more than 300 apps. The company’s popular game, "The Floor Is Lava," which features realistic animated lava and stepping stones, has been a hit in elementary schools, particularly in Winnipeg, Manitoba. However, the game's immersive effect has led to an unforeseen consequence: children taking the game home, quite literally.

Teachers initially used the game as a fun, interactive experience for students. But reports soon emerged of children leaping across living room furniture, avoiding carpets as if they were molten lava, and using placemats as stepping stones. Concerned parents reached out, noting their homes had inadvertently turned into obstacle courses.

In response to this, LUMOplay plans to replace "The Floor Is Lava" with a new effect called "The Floor Is Perfectly Safe," which features a harmless, plush carpet that does absolutely nothing. "While we strive to create fun and engaging experiences, we certainly didn't intend for living rooms to become climbing gyms," said Meghan Athavale, LUMOplay's CEO and co-founder. "We apologize to any parents who've had to navigate transformed floorplans. 'The Floor Is Perfectly Safe' is our way of bringing a bit more calm – and a lot less climbing – to family homes."

"I thought teaching my kids the floor is lava would be a fun memory. Turns out, it’s a life lesson for them," said Jake Harrison, an accountant and father of two in Winnipeg. "I've had to become a part-time referee just to navigate through my living room. I'm looking forward to 'The Floor Is Perfectly Safe'. Maybe it'll convince them that our carpet isn't a molten hazard."

This change reflects LUMOplay's commitment to not only creating captivating interactive experiences but also ensuring they fit comfortably within the varied environments of its users, from classrooms to living rooms.

Nobody really reads press releases, and they’re pretty dull. Our stuff is way more fun in person. Besides, reading about interactive experiences is like dancing about architecture: It kills some time, but you don’t learn much. If you’re reading this anyway, come to booth 953 at LDI 2023 and mention it. We have a surprise for you.