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There are 2 types of murder mystery detective games. They are called murder mystery dinner games and murder mystery case files.
In murder mystery dinners – a large group of friends dress up in character, have talking points and character secrets, and have to work together to solve a murder.
In murder mystery case files – a small group of friends look at a variety of clues and puzzles and have to decipher who a killer is from a set of suspects.
Both are extremely fun and rewarding, and each one has their own benefits. If you’re looking for a full night party with a big group, then a murder mystery dinner party is the way to go. But if you’re looking for a quiet night in with a friend or partner, then murder mystery cases win every time.
Let’s look a little deeper into the difference between these two types of games:
What Is a Murder Mystery Dinner Game?
It’s part dinner party, part game night, and part mystery story. Each guest plays a character in a story where a pretend murder has taken place. One person is the killer, but no one knows who it is – not even the killer themselves sometimes!
As you eat, chat, and laugh, you’ll be asking questions, sharing secrets, and collecting clues. It’s all about figuring out who the guilty person is from the clues you’ll find after a murder and from the conversations you’ll have.
Don’t worry, it’s not scary. It’s all in good fun. And no acting skills are needed.
What Is a Murder Mystery Case File?
It’s a relaxing and fun activity that can take anything from 1 to 4 hours to complete, depending on the difficulty. You’ll be provided with a set of suspects with interrogations, evidence and other information about the murder. You’ll need to look at each bit of evidence and try to work out if someone is lying about their alibi, or perhaps if their fingerprints are somewhere they shouldn’t be. There are a ton of different ways that a suspect could be caught out, so you need to be eagle-eyed all the way through.
Why Are These Games So Popular?
There’s something exciting about being a detective for a night. You get to step into a story, play a role, and use your brain in a fun way. You’re not just sitting around watching a movie – you’re part of the mystery!
These games shake things up. They give people a reason to talk, laugh, and connect. They’re also a great way to get to know people better, and see how their brains work.
What’s It Like to Play a Dinner Party?
Before the dinner, the host sends out character information. Each guest gets a role with a few details – like your name, your background, and a secret you’re hiding. You don’t need to memorize anything as you can bring the sheet with you. Just read it, dress up a little if you want, and show up.
Once everyone arrives, the game starts. Maybe someone falls over (dramatically), and the murder mystery begins. Clues are read out, questions are asked, and little by little, the truth starts to come out.
Some guests will try to be clever. Others will make wild guesses. Even though you’re trying to solve the murder, the fun is really in the overall experience.
At the end, everyone makes a final guess. Then the truth is revealed. Sometimes people are shocked. Sometimes they were right all along. Either way, it makes for a great ending.
Who Can Play?
Anyone! These games work for groups of 4 to 20 or more. You can play with family, friends, coworkers, or even strangers. You don’t need to be good at acting or solving puzzles. Just be ready to join in.
Kids, teens, and adults can all enjoy it. There are family-friendly versions and others made just for adults. You can even play online if your group can’t meet in person.
How Do You Host One?
It’s easier than it sounds. You can buy a ready-made murder mystery kit online. These usually include characters, clues, instructions, and even invitations and award certificates.
Some kits are short and simple. Others are longer and more detailed. Pick one that fits your group’s style. If you’re hosting for the first time, go with a beginner version.
Set the scene with music, simple decorations, and maybe themed food. For example, if your game takes place in the 1920s, you can serve old-fashioned cocktails or wear flapper outfits. But honestly? Even just pizza and name tags work just fine.
Tips for a Great Game Night
- Send roles early so guests can prepare
- Keep things relaxed – no pressure to act perfectly
- Use name tags so it’s easier to remember who’s who
- Serve easy food that doesn’t take too much focus
- Laugh a lot – it’s more fun when people don’t take it too seriously
Murder Mystery Detective Games
Murder mystery detective games bring a little magic to the dinner table. They’re silly, smart, and just different enough to be memorable. The joy of solving a mystery with people you like never really gets old no matter how many times you do it.
So, next time you’re planning a dinner party or looking for something new to do – you should give murder mystery detective games a try? Put on your detective hat, grab a clue, and see who your guests really are when the mystery begins.
