How To Run a Murder Mystery

 

This section is a step-by-step walkthrough, aimed at giving you all you need to host a successful murder mystery night that will be talked about by your guests for plenty of time to come.

Preparing the Game

Assuming you have downloaded your pack, here is everything you need to know about preparing the game before your guests arrive.

1. Organise the pages into a neat pile for each of your guests. Each guest should have a character page and a question menu.

2. We would suggest deciding who will act as the 'narrator' for your game at this stage too. This is the person who will read out the story at the beginning of each act, therefore this part of the document only needs to be printed once. Top tip: As the host, we would suggest that you take on the role of narrator to add to the sense of mystery and suspense! 

3. Cut out and fold the status cards. We find it works best to have these in a bowl or hat before guests arrive. These will be used to determine who is the killer, so double-check this to avoid any careless mistake.

 

Once your guests have arrived…

1. Assign characters. This can be done randomly or by selection. We would advise against allowing your guests to choose their characters – it's a lot more fun seeing them take on a role that might be very different from their true selves.

2. Assign Status Cards. These tell your guests whether they are INNOCENT or GUILTY. This should be done in secret. Make sure your guests don't accidentally reveal their cards to anyone else, or else the mystery is ruined. Top tip: destroy the status cards once they have been seen. This way there's no chance of them falling into the wrong hands!

3. Get into role! Give your guests time to get to know their characters. Each Character Sheet contains a short bio to give some insights into their character's background and personality.

 

Playing the Game

1. Great! You're ready to start your murder mystery! Each pack contains detailed instructions as to how to play. Should these still leave you puzzled, please watch our Gameplay video for more information.

2. Start by reading the Setting the Scene section in your notes. This sets up the story and gives all of your guests some essential background information.

3. Top tip: Allow time for breaks and don't feel the need to rush. Letting your evening run at a leisurely pace and with zero pressure always makes for a more enjoyable evening in our experience.

 

Ending the Game

1. So, you've made it through the game… now what? Allow some time for your guests to discuss their theories as to who the murderer might be. 

2. Each game is designed to provoke conversation and intrigue. We deliberately make sure that each character has a motive for murder and that the story is left wide open right up until the final reveal.

3. On each Character Sheet, your guests are instructed to profess their innocence, but only to begin with. Once all the theories have been explored, it is then time for the killer to reveal themselves and bring your mystery to a satisfying close. Top tip: Draw out the killer's reveal and build in as much suspense as possible. By this point, your guests should be immersed in their roles and love acting this moment out with as much enthusiasm as possible.