Not sure about the version you mention but if you build the current development PRO version (following the instructions on https://github.com/nesbox/TIC-80) your problem might be solved. I have this version installed and if I load a cart then from TIC's command line issue 'export native' I end up with an executable *.tic file which does not allow access to the various editors via F1,F2 etc.. It does show a menu when 'escape' is pressed but that menu doesn't seem to do anything! You have to close the program by closing the window.
I'm with you on this, if the following were implemented TIC would be pretty much perfect:
- A way to disable the menu from native versions
- A way to change the text in the window title bar
- A way to disable the boot message in an exported app (you can't use 'skip' afaik)
- A way to execute os.exit() rather than having to close the window
In short, some way of hiding TIC and the 'cart' concept from the end user.