This paper explores the concept of immersion in gaming, aiming to define and understand the different levels of engagement and immersion experienced by gamers. Using Grounded Theory, the authors conducted interviews with seven gamers to gather insights on their experiences. The study identifies three levels of immersion: engagement, engrossment, and total immersion. Engagement is the initial stage, requiring time, effort, and attention from the gamer. Engrossment involves deeper emotional investment and a more immersive experience, where the game significantly affects the gamer's emotions and sense of presence. Total immersion, or presence, is the highest level, where the gamer feels detached from reality and fully immersed in the game world. The study also discusses the barriers to each level of immersion, such as access, game construction, empathy, and atmosphere. The findings suggest that immersion is a dynamic and multifaceted experience, and that understanding these aspects can inform the design of more engaging and immersive experiences in various domains, including education and collaborative tools.This paper explores the concept of immersion in gaming, aiming to define and understand the different levels of engagement and immersion experienced by gamers. Using Grounded Theory, the authors conducted interviews with seven gamers to gather insights on their experiences. The study identifies three levels of immersion: engagement, engrossment, and total immersion. Engagement is the initial stage, requiring time, effort, and attention from the gamer. Engrossment involves deeper emotional investment and a more immersive experience, where the game significantly affects the gamer's emotions and sense of presence. Total immersion, or presence, is the highest level, where the gamer feels detached from reality and fully immersed in the game world. The study also discusses the barriers to each level of immersion, such as access, game construction, empathy, and atmosphere. The findings suggest that immersion is a dynamic and multifaceted experience, and that understanding these aspects can inform the design of more engaging and immersive experiences in various domains, including education and collaborative tools.