This paper presents an evaluation of the benefits and user acceptance of a multimodal interface in which the user interacts with a game-like interactive virtual reality application ``The Enigma of the Sphinx''. The interface consists of a large projection screen as the main display, a ``magic wand'', a stereo sound system and the user's voice for ``casting spells''. We present our conclusions concerning ``friendliness'' and sense of presence, based on observations of more than 150 users in a public event. r 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.