When planning a game night, opting for a murder mystery game is a surefire way to keep everyone engaged and entertained. While virtual party games are popular, nothing beats the tactile experience and immersive storytelling of a physical board game. These games offer a thrilling whodunit experience that keeps guests on their toes throughout the evening. With a wide variety of options available, from the family-friendly classic Clue to more complex games like One Night Ultimate Werewolf, there's something for every group and occasion.
TL;DR: These are the Best Murder Mystery Games
### Clue
0See it at Amazon
### One Night Ultimate Werewolf
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### Mysterium
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### Exit: The Game – Dead Man on The Orient Express
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### Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective - The Thames Murders & Other Cases
0See it at Amazon
### Hunt a Killer – Death at The Dive Bar
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### University Games Murder Mystery Party Case Files: Underwood Cellars
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### Deception: Murder in Hong Kong
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### 13 Dead End Drive
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### MicroMacro: Crime City
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### Rear Window
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### Cryptic Killers: Murder of a Millionaire
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### Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game
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In this board game shopping guide, we've curated a selection of the best murder mystery games perfect for your next game night. These games, though selected with adults in mind, offer unique experiences and can accommodate a variety of player counts, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your group and vibe. Which ones have you tried?
Additional contributions by Hannah Houlihan
Clue
### Clue
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 2-6
Clue is a timeless classic that remains one of the most recognized board games. It's perfect for up to 6 players, each taking on the role of a suspect trying to solve the murder of Mr. Boddy at Tudor Mansion. The game challenges you to identify the killer, the location, and the weapon used, making it an excellent choice for family game nights and a top pick among family board games.
One Night Ultimate Werewolf
### One Night Ultimate Werewolf
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 3-10
One Night Ultimate Werewolf offers a fast-paced twist on the classic Werewolf game, designed for groups of up to 10 players. Without a moderator or eliminations, this game is all about solving the mystery of who the Werewolf is in just one night. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a quick and engaging party game. For more options, explore our guide to the best board games for large groups.
Mysterium
### Mysterium
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 2-7
Mysterium elevates the murder mystery genre by introducing a cooperative element. One player becomes a ghost, guiding the others, who play as psychics, to uncover the killer's identity through visions. Suitable for up to 7 players, this game offers a unique and immersive experience that can be completed in just over 40 minutes.
Exit: The Game – Dead Man on The Orient Express
### Exit: The Game – Dead Man on The Orient Express
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 1-4
Exit: The Game transforms your home into an escape room, challenging you to solve a murder mystery aboard the Orient Express. With a one-time-use format, players must interact with the game materials to crack the case before the train reaches its destination. If you enjoy this style, check out our selection of other escape room board games.
Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective - The Thames Murders & Other Cases
### Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective - The Thames Murders & Other Cases
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 1-8
Step into the shoes of Sherlock Holmes with this game, which offers 10 detailed mysteries set in Victorian London. It's perfect for those who enjoy a more challenging whodunit experience, suitable for ages 12 and up, and can be played solo or with a group of up to 8 players.
Hunt a Killer – Death at The Dive Bar
### Hunt a Killer – Death at The Dive Bar
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 1+
True crime enthusiasts will appreciate Hunt a Killer – Death at The Dive Bar, an immersive puzzle game that can be played solo or with friends. Solve the mystery surrounding the death of a local bar owner, Nick Webster, in about 45-60 minutes.
University Games Murder Mystery Party Case Files: Underwood Cellars
### University Games Murder Mystery Party Case Files: Underwood Cellars
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 1+
For an in-depth mystery, try the Underwood Cellars Murder Mystery Party Case Files. This game takes about 2 hours to solve the disappearance and death of famed winemaker Cary Underwood, offering a rich narrative and engaging gameplay.
Deception: Murder in Hong Kong
### Deception: Murder in Hong Kong
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 4-12
Deception: Murder in Hong Kong is a quick 20-minute game that's similar to Werewolf. Players assume roles like Murderer, Accomplice, Forensic Scientist, Witness, and Investigators, working together or against each other to solve the crime.
13 Dead End Drive
### 13 Dead End Drive
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 2-4
13 Dead End Drive is a fun, classic murder mystery game reminiscent of Knives Out. Players compete to inherit Aunt Agatha's fortune by setting traps and eliminating the competition. It's suitable for up to 4 players and offers a lighthearted take on the genre.
MicroMacro: Crime City
### MicroMacro: Crime City
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 1-4
MicroMacro: Crime City combines the thrill of solving mysteries with a Where's Waldo-style search. With 16 cases to solve, players use a magnifying glass to uncover clues, making it a great choice for groups of up to 4 people. It takes between 15-45 minutes to complete.
Rear Window
### Rear Window
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 3-5
Inspired by Hitchcock's classic film, Rear Window introduces a unique twist on the murder mystery genre. One player acts as the director, using images to communicate who lives in each apartment. Sometimes, a murder adds a thrilling layer of competition, making every game a suspenseful experience.
Cryptic Killers: Murder of a Millionaire
### Cryptic Killers: Murder of a Millionaire
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 1-99
Cryptic Killers: Murder of a Millionaire is the first in a popular series that can be played solo or cooperatively. Solve the mystery of lottery winner Chloe's death through visual and text clues, logic puzzles, and detailed props, offering a compelling narrative and challenging gameplay.
Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game
### Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 1-5
Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game offers a realistic simulation of police work, with players acting as detectives solving complex cases. Its campaign-style gameplay means early information can become crucial later, creating an engaging narrative that feels like a top-tier TV drama.
