In today’s fandom feature, we have an inside look at one of the most ambitious and jaw-dropping fan-built interactive Ghostbusters displays to date, created by the franchise group, the Charm City Ghostbusters. Designed as a walk-through Firehouse experience, this immersive setup goes far beyond photo ops and printed backdrops, offering fans the chance to step directly into the world of Ghostbusters.
According to the team, work on “The Experience” began in the fall of 2023 and required more than 1,000 hours, from early concepts through construction and final deployment. Instead of flat prints or curtain backdrops, over 30 physical walls were engineered and built, allowing the group to recreate the Firehouse’s interior as a fully realized space. To ensure the pop-up could travel to various events, the builders sourced floor plans from multiple convention centers, so that the layout could adapt and scale to any venue.
Once inside, fans are treated to a level of set dressing that rivals what you would find on a Hollywood production. Replica artwork and posters line the walls, a working desk bell triggers the signature alarm, and of course, an Ectomobile is parked inside and available for free photos.
The build goes even further with a custom-developed, fully interactive video game that integrates directly with the physical environment. Players step into an alley beside the Firehouse to test out a Proton Pack as they attempt to weaken and capture everyone’s favorite glutinous green spud, Slimer. The neutrona wand has been outfitted with motion-capture hardware, translating player movement and aim directly into the game. Custom electronics with Bluetooth controllers allow the system to tap into the stock Hasbro gear, providing real-time feedback as fans fire their proton streams, deploy the trap, and close it on cue.
To complete the experience, the group constructed a one-of-a-kind, full-scale Containment Unit made of wood and metal to achieve the proper weight and feel. After capturing Slimer in the game, players physically walk over and deposit the trap into the functioning ECU. The electronics for the unit were donated by NinjaTunes, giving the build a clean plug-and-play setup that looks and behaves exactly how fans expect. For a look at gameplay, check out the video below.
Serving as Maryland’s premiere group of fan-based paranormal eliminators, the Charm City Ghostbusters are bringing “The Experience” to local and surrounding conventions, and it is absolutely the kind of installation fans will want to walk through at least once. For details on upcoming appearances, head on over to Charm City Ghostbusters’ official website, and for a further look at The Experience, visit Ghost1MoreMod on YouTube.
