DeepSummary
In this episode, Joel Head, the co-creator of the award-winning virtual escape game 'The Keeper and the Fungus Among Us,' discusses the origins and creative process behind the game. Joel shares how they initially planned to open a physical escape room but pivoted to creating an online experience during the pandemic lockdowns. The game blends elements of puppetry, music, humor, and puzzles into an immersive fantasy adventure.
Joel provides behind-the-scenes insights into the intricate mechanics of running the game single-handedly, managing puppeteering, set changes, video streaming, and game mastering simultaneously. He also delves into his musical inspirations, such as the funk band Vulfpeck and the character of Dr. Frank-N-Furter from 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show,' and how he crafted the game's soundscape.
The conversation also touches on the future plans for Headlock Escape Rooms, including their upcoming prequel game 'The Rise of the Funguy,' and the challenges of maintaining a virtual escape room business as the world reopens after the pandemic.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- 'The Keeper and the Fungus Among Us' is a unique and immersive virtual escape game that blends puppetry, music, humor, and puzzles into a captivating fantasy adventure.
- The game's creator, Joel Head, is a multi-talented artist who single-handedly manages all aspects of the game, from puppeteering and set changes to music composition and game mastering.
- The game draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including funk music, classic horror movies, and the works of puppeteer Barnaby Dixon.
- Despite the challenges of transitioning from a physical escape room to a virtual experience during the pandemic, Joel and his wife Janae have created a highly acclaimed and memorable game.
- The success of 'The Keeper and the Fungus Among Us' has led to plans for a prequel game, 'The Rise of the Funguy,' and the potential for future brick-and-mortar expansion.
- The collaborative dynamic between Joel and Janae, as well as their willingness to incorporate player contributions, has played a crucial role in shaping the game's humor and overall experience.
- The game's ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and familiarity while also delivering a fresh and unique experience has contributed to its widespread appeal.
- The attention to detail, from the intricate puppet designs to the immersive soundscape, showcases Joel and Janae's dedication to creating a high-quality and engaging experience for players.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “I think it was about half and half, really. I have a very dry sense of humor. I'm very introverted most of the time. Janae is the exact opposite. And so we play off of each other pretty well in that aspect. She's a lot funnier than I am. But also, if one of the players says something really funny, I just say, I'm stealing that, and then it just lives the rest of the time in the game.“ by Joel Head
- “Barnaby Dixon does all of these hand puppets, but really, they're not hand puppets. They're like finger puppets. And they are these incredible miniature contraptions. They're like little bitty machines on his fingers. And the way that they move, it's so realistic. And also, just like in this fantasy world, you have to look him up if you don't know who he is.“ by Joel Head
Entities
Person
Company
Product
Episode Information
Reality Escape Pod - Escape Rooms & Immersive Games
David Spira & Peih-Gee Law
5/15/23
In Season 5, episode 5, we chat with Joel Head from Headlock Escape Rooms. Joel and Janae Head are the creators of The Keeper & the Fungus Among Us—a Golden Lock Award-winning virtual escape room. Picture this: a puppet musical escape room adventure infused with awesome dark fantasy vibes. Imagine if The Labrynth married Rocky Horror Picture Show and they birthed a deliciously villainous mushroom. Throw in a sprinkling of humor, original music by Joel, and absurdly charming sets by Janae. They’ve definitely put the “fun” in fungi.
Joel talks to us about the origins of the game and some of his game inspirations. He gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the intricacies of running The Keeper & the Fungus Among Us, revealing that not only is he puppeteering, he is also handling the software, the set changes, and gamemastering. Talk about a one-man-band! We hear about his musical influences like funk band Vulfpeck and Tim Curry’s Dr. Frank-n-furter. Joel also shares his creation process when designing soundscapes for his virtual escape room.
The Keeper & the Fungus Among Us is one of the best games to emerge from the pandemic, and after chatting with Joel, it’s easy to see why. This game is a hilarious, rollicking romp through a puzzley, puppet-filled world. It’s remarkable how immersive a virtual game can feel. Headlock Escape Rooms is hard at work on the prequel, The Rise of the Fungi, which should be available later this year. We can’t wait to play it.
Full with Show Notes Timestamps
Episode SponsorsThank you to our sponsors:
MortyMorty is a free app for discovering, planning, tracking, and reviewing your escape rooms and other immersive social outings.
Special Badge for REPOD listeners:
You can learn more at MortyApp.com/REPOD to sign up and get a special badge for our listeners (works for existing users also).
ResovaResova is your all-inclusive software for bookings, made specifically for escape rooms, offering robust booking management, waiver management, integrated point of sales systems, and follow-up emails. Resova is the ultimate online reservation software designed to elevate the guest experience, increase game master efficiencies, drive sales, and improve operations.
Special Offer for REPOD Listeners:
Sign up with our link at Get.resova.com/rea and receive up to $100 with a Google Ads gift card.
Reality Escape Convention - RECONEscape room conventions should be as fun, collaborative, and immersive as the games we celebrate.
RECON is our very own escape room and immersive gaming convention. Whether you’re an owner, creator, player, or you’re escape room curious, you are invited learn, connect, and play with our wonderful community.
RECON Remote 23 will take place August 19 – 20, 2023, online.
RECON 24 will be in person.
Get your RECON 23 ticket at now.
Music CreditsOur music was created by Ryan Elder.
Production CreditsREPOD is produced by Lisa Spira and edited by Steve Ewing of Stand Inside Media.