Planning a game night? Murder mystery games are always a hit! Even with the rise of online virtual games, nothing beats a physical board game for a truly engaging experience. These games offer thrilling whodunits, keeping everyone involved and guessing until the very end. From classic family games like Clue to more complex options for friends like One Night Ultimate Werewolf, there's a murder mystery game for every group.
Top Murder Mystery Board Games
### Clue
Players: 2-6
A classic! Unravel the mystery of Mr. Boddy's murder at Tudor Mansion. Determine the killer, weapon, and location. Perfect for families.
### One Night Ultimate Werewolf
Players: 3-10
A fast-paced, moderator-free werewolf game. Identify the werewolf in a single night with no elimination and minimal downtime. Great for large groups.
### Mysterium
Players: 2-7
A unique twist: one player is a ghost guiding psychic players to solve the murder. Engaging gameplay lasting approximately 40 minutes.
### Exit: The Game – Dead Man on The Orient Express
Players: 1-4
An escape room experience in a box. Solve the mystery before the train reaches its destination. Note: This is a one-time play game due to its interactive components.
### Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective - The Thames Murders & Other Cases
Players: 1-8
Step into Sherlock Holmes' shoes to solve ten Victorian-era mysteries in London. Challenging and suitable for ages 12+.
### Hunt a Killer – Death at The Dive Bar
Players: 1+
An immersive true crime puzzle game. Solve the murder of bar owner Nick Webster. Expect 45-60 minutes of gameplay.
### University Games Murder Mystery Party Case Files: Underwood Cellars
Players: 1+
A lengthy, in-depth investigation into the disappearance and death of a winemaker. Prepare for 2+ hours of gameplay.
### Deception: Murder in Hong Kong
Players: 4-12
A fast-paced (20 minutes) game where players take on roles like murderer, accomplice, and investigator.
### 13 Dead End Drive
Players: 2-4
A classic murder mystery with a "Knives Out" feel. Players compete for an inheritance.
### MicroMacro: Crime City
Players: 1-4
Solve 16 cases using a detailed map and a magnifying glass. A visual puzzle with a "Where's Waldo" element. Expect 15-45 minutes of gameplay.
### Rear Window
Players: 3-5
Inspired by Hitchcock's film. One player is the director, communicating clues to solve a mystery or keep a murder secret.
### Cryptic Killers: Murder of a Millionaire
Players: 1-99
Solve the murder of a lottery winner using visual and text clues. Playable solo or cooperatively.
### Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game
Players: 1-5
A realistic simulation of police work, with complex cases and a branching narrative.
This guide features some of the best murder mystery games for your next game night. While geared towards adults, many offer varied player counts and experiences to suit diverse groups. Which ones have you tried?
Additional contributions by Hannah Houlihan