Museum of Science & Industry: U505 Dive Simulator

It’s your turn to Captain a WWII Submarine

For the Museum of Science and Industry's U-505 submarine exhibit, Leviathan designed and programmed a cutting-edge dive simulator, featuring high-resolution effects, 4D sound, and tactile controls. The interactive experience plunges guests into the perilous world of WWII submarine warfare.

Our Challenge

Since 1954, the legendary U-505 submarine has been a major attraction at the world-renowned Museum of Science and Industry.

While this massive artifact continues to captivate visitors, museum leadership recognized the need for a modern media component to deepen audience engagement.

Can you save save the ship?

The U505 dive simulator delivers on that vision through a gameplay experience that is as entertaining as it is educational.

Designed by Leviathan in collaboration with Luci Creative and Ravenswood Studio, the attraction features high-resolution, generative graphics—on par with today’s top video games—rendered in real time using Unreal Engine. Three large screens and 4D sound create a deeply immersive environment, while analog controls at each of the three simulation stations offer tactile interactivity.

With an infinite number of play sequences and outcomes, no two sessions are ever the same, encouraging repeat visits. The experience strikes a careful balance between fun and historical fidelity, challenging players to survive the very real dangers of WWII submarine warfare—evading torpedoes, depth charges, and the crushing pressure of the deep.

Behind the Scenes

Credits: 

Client: Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago

Game design, development, and vfx production: Leviathan/Envoy (Ellen Freifeld as Senior Producer)

Project Physical Design, Build and Installation: Luci Creative and Ravenswood Studios

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