Players are tasked with navigating their way through the labyrinth of theater complexes within a time limit indicated by three bell chimes and finding their randomly assigned seat in the virtual auditorium, thus embarking on a time-travel journey through different eras of the theater’s architecture. The game's dramaturgy is designed so that the theater’s space is not merely a traditional stage, opting instead to cast each viewer as an active participant—or even protagonist—at the center of action in the theaters of both today and the future.

Third Call impresses with a post-realistic aesthetic that allows the existing architecture of the Badisches Staatstheater to be experienced with a renewed intensity. The detailed depiction of the current buildings is combined with an original vision of future public spaces. The game presents a futuristic vision of architectural development that surprises and fascinates while dissolving the boundaries between reality and digital fantasy. In this way, Third Call opens up an immersive, virtual world that is instantly accessible and where architectural forms are reimagined in a visionary way.

Third Call was developed using Unreal Engine and offers realistic special effects, as well as an original sound design. The game mechanics are designed to be simple and intuitive. With a maximum playing time of 8 minutes, players can start and continue the game from any point in the theater. This design enables seamless interaction for the audience before performances and ensures that each new player can easily get started.

The game by VOLNA is one of the pilot projects of the newly created Digital Theater division, which, beginning in the 2024/2025 season, will serve as a center of support for the five existing divisions of the Badisches Staatstheater. With Third Call, the Staatstheater positions itself as a pioneer in creating hybrid digital theater experiences.