diff --git a/main.py b/main.py
index 953c198..46e3a69 100644
--- a/main.py
+++ b/main.py
@@ -13,6 +13,7 @@ from cmu_graphics import *
 import json
 import random
 import math
+import os
 
 
 # =============================================================================
@@ -306,6 +307,8 @@ def onKeyPress(app, key):
     # DEBUG
     if key == "m":
         app.save["cash"] = 1000000
+    if key == "escape":
+        os._exit(0) #suggested by AI, instantly exits without hanging like sys.exit(0)
 
     #added by AI, but simply allows me to trigger a breakpoint manually to check state of app and variables
     #after some debate, this was the best option over something more complex