Case study
THE MISSING BARRELS: Quebec's first interactive podcast
The story behind the experience
The client wanted to attract a younger audience, particularly people in their twenties, to Old Saint-Jean, while introducing them to the neighborhood’s history during the Prohibition era. The goal was to showcase local businesses, bars, and restaurants through an original and engaging activity.
That was all it took to inspire our team! Based on this historical context, we came up with a bold approach: Quebec’s very first interactive podcast. The experience took the form of a fake “true crime” investigation, which participants followed as they wandered from one barrel to another throughout the city. An immersive and innovative way to explore the past… while discovering the present!
Their business goals:
- Convey historical content in an original way, through modern and immersive storytelling.
- Attract a young clientele to the heart of the Old Saint-Jean, particularly those aged 20-35.
The result: The Missing Barrels
The Barrels Quest was in place for two years and was a huge success, attracting nearly 12,000 participants. The activity combined historical content, a narrative podcast, and an interactive game accessible via a mobile app.
Participants followed a fictional investigation inspired by the Prohibition era, scanning barrels placed throughout the neighborhood. Each barrel unlocked a new episode of the podcast and a fun challenge to be solved on site. This innovative formula reinvented the historical tour, while stimulating local traffic and connecting a new generation to its heritage.
Game Synopsis
Do you enjoy listening to true crime podcasts, putting yourself in the shoes of an investigator, and playing games? An unprecedented experience awaits you in the Old St-Jean!
Immerse yourself in the world of a true crime podcast by taking part in the investigation while putting your brain to work through a series of games and puzzles.
Dive into the world of the podcast
Listen to the introduction and let podcast host and producer Stéphane Berthomet immerse you in the world of the investigation that awaits you.
