It was essential for the virtual refuge to make the process of exploration and learning an experience that was fun, engaging and informative. Children can explore the house and talk to people who are staying there. Just like in a real refuge, children are invited to select personal possessions to take with them: the selected items appear when they go into the bedroom. To motivate children to visit all the rooms a game narrative was created. Collecting all the stars meant completing the game.

Working closely with the client, the experience was carefully scripted to allow key messages to be communicated during game play. Bespoke sound effects bring the refuge to life, and help to create a convincing and homely atmosphere for users.

Atticmedia worked with Women’s Aid to create a distinctive look and feel designed to appeal to each age group. The Hideout needed to feel like a safe friendly environment that the target user groups, who may be experiencing domestic abuse, could trust. Thus the concept of a diarly where people have already 'left their mark' was created, allowing for a personal human feel to drive the creative direction.

Winner of "Best in class" in the charity and kids categories for the Interactive Media Awards.