Planning a game night? A murder mystery game is always a winner! Even with the rise of online virtual games, nothing beats the thrill of a physical board game. Murder mystery games offer engaging, suspenseful fun for everyone. This genre boasts a wide variety of options, from family-friendly classics like Clue to more complex games for friends like One Night Ultimate Werewolf.
Top Murder Mystery Board Games
### Clue
Players: 2-6
Clue is a classic for a reason! 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, thrilling night with up to 10 players. Great for large groups.
### Mysterium
Players: 2-7
A unique twist: one player is a ghost guiding psychics (the other players) to solve the murder. Engaging gameplay lasting around 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.
### Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective - The Thames Murders & Other Cases
Players: 1-8
Step into Sherlock Holmes' shoes! Solve 10 intricate Victorian-era mysteries in London. Challenging and enjoyable for solo or group play (ages 12+).
### Hunt a Killer – Death at The Dive Bar
Players: 1+
An immersive true crime experience. 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 deep dive into a murder mystery. Unravel the 20-year-old disappearance and death of winemaker Cary Underwood. Expect 2+ hours of gameplay.
### Deception: Murder in Hong Kong
Players: 4-12
A fast-paced game (20 minutes) where players take on roles like Murderer, Accomplice, and Investigator to solve the crime.
### 13 Dead End Drive
Players: 2-4
A classic whodunit with a Knives Out vibe. Inherit a fortune by outsmarting your rivals.
### MicroMacro: Crime City
Players: 1-4
Solve 16 cases using a detailed map and keen observation skills. A magnifying glass is included!
### Rear Window
Players: 3-5
Inspired by Hitchcock's film. One player is the director, communicating clues to solve the mystery (or keep it secret!).
### Cryptic Killers: Murder of a Millionaire
Players: 1-99
Solve the murder of lottery winner Chloe using visual and textual clues. Playable solo or cooperatively.
### Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game
Players: 1-5
A realistic simulation of police work. Solve complex cases with online case files, creating a long-term campaign.
This guide features some of the best murder mystery games for your next game night. While geared towards adults, many offer diverse gameplay for various group sizes and preferences. Which ones have you tried?
Additional contributions by Hannah Houlihan
