When planning a game night, a murder mystery game is an unbeatable choice. While virtual party games have their place, the tactile experience of a physical board game brings an unmatched level of engagement and excitement. Mystery board games captivate players of all ages, offering a thrilling whodunit experience that keeps everyone on their toes throughout the evening. Whether you opt for the classic family-friendly game of Clue or dive into something more intricate like One Night Ultimate Werewolf with friends, there's a murder mystery game to suit every group and occasion.
TL;DR: These are the Best Murder Mystery Games
### Clue
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### 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
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### 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
0See it at AmazonIn this board game shopping guide, we’ve curated a selection of top murder mystery games perfect for your next game night. While these games are selected with adults in mind, each offers a unique experience and accommodates various player counts, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your group and vibe. Have you tried any of these?
Additional contributions by Hannah Houlihan
Clue
### Clue
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 2-6
Clue, a timeless classic, is a must-have murder mystery game that can entertain up to 6 players. Step into the shoes of a suspect as you gather clues to unravel the mystery of Mr. Boddy's murder at Tudor Mansion. Determine the killer, the location, and the weapon used. It's an engaging detective game ideal for family game nights and one of the best family board games available.
One Night Ultimate Werewolf
### One Night Ultimate Werewolf
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 3-10
One Night Ultimate Werewolf is a thrilling, fast-paced take on the beloved Werewolf game, perfect for large groups. With no moderator, no eliminations, and minimal downtime, it's ideal for a quick round with up to 10 players. Solve the mystery of who's the Werewolf in one night of suspense and strategy. For more group fun, 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 casting one player as a ghost who guides the others, playing as psychics, to uncover the killer. With up to 7 players, this game offers a cooperative experience that lasts just over 40 minutes, blending mystery with a unique psychic twist.
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 with this Agatha Christie-inspired mystery. Solve the case before the train reaches its destination, though be aware this game can only be played once as you'll need to interact with and alter the game materials. For more escape room fun, check out our other recommendations.
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
Immerse yourself in Victorian London with this game featuring 10 detailed mysteries to solve. Suitable for solo play or with up to 8 players, this challenging game is perfect for ages 12 and up, offering a more complex take on the classic whodunit.
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 revel in this immersive puzzle game. Solve the mysterious death of local bar owner Nick Webster with one or more players in about 45-60 minutes. It's a deep dive into a gripping narrative that's perfect for fans of the genre.
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 even more in-depth experience, this game challenges you to uncover the fate of Napa winemaker Cary Underwood, missing for 20 years. With a playtime of 2 hours or more, it's a rich, detailed mystery perfect for those who love to delve deep into a case.
Deception: Murder in Hong Kong
### Deception: Murder in Hong Kong
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 4-12
Deception: Murder in Hong Kong offers a quick 20-minute game where players assume various roles, including Murderer, Accomplice, Forensic Scientist, Witness, and Investigators. It's a fast-paced, engaging game that's perfect for groups looking for a quick yet thrilling mystery to solve.
13 Dead End Drive
### 13 Dead End Drive
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 2-4
This classic game evokes the spirit of "Knives Out" with its inheritance-themed murder mystery. Aunt Agatha's fortune is up for grabs, and you'll need to outwit your opponents and set traps to claim it. It's a fun, strategic game for up to four players.
MicroMacro: Crime City
### MicroMacro: Crime City
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 1-4
With 16 cases to solve, MicroMacro: Crime City adds a Where's Waldo twist to the mystery genre. A magnifying glass included in the box helps you scrutinize every detail. Enjoy this game with up to four players in 15-45 minutes, offering a unique blend of mystery and visual puzzle-solving.
Rear Window
### Rear Window
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 3-5
Inspired by Hitchcock’s classic thriller, this game mirrors the structure of Mysterium but adds a suspenseful twist. One player, the director, assigns characters to apartments and uses images to convey information to the others. Sometimes, a murder adds an extra layer of intrigue, turning the game into a tense battle between the director's secrecy and the players' detective work.
Cryptic Killers: Murder of a Millionaire
### Cryptic Killers: Murder of a Millionaire
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 1-99
The first in the Cryptic Killers series, this game lets you solve the murder of lottery winner Chloe either solo or with up to 99 players. With a mix of visual and text clues, and challenging logic puzzles, it creates an immersive narrative that draws you into the lives of its characters.
Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game
### Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game
0See it at AmazonNumber of players: 1-5
Detective promises a realistic simulation of modern police work, with an online case file system and a long-term campaign where early clues can impact later cases. While its realism is debated, it delivers on creating a compelling, branching narrative that feels like top-tier TV drama.
