How to Solve a Murder Mystery: Tips and Tricks for First-Time Guests

So, you were just invited to your first murder mystery party and are wondering, where do I even start? Solving the whodunnit as a first-time player can be both challenging and exhilarating. In this blog post, we'll share some of the best tips and tricks for solving a murder mystery at a murder mystery party so you can surprise folks with your super sleuthing. 

1. Understand the Scenario and Your Character

Before diving into solving the mystery, take time to understand the scenario and the character you are playing. Read the setting carefully, look over the character list to see who else is attending the party (these are your suspects!), and think about the key events leading up to the crime. Your character profile you receive before the party begins will provide context for the clues you encounter later.

Character Profiles give you clues as to who to talk to and what the main plot points are

2. Pay Attention to Clues

While each character has different secrets and information from the beginning,  the murder mystery game provides the evidence and clues to every player needed to solve the crime at the beginning through the evidence. . You can find clues in the toast that kicks off the investigation, in the evidence presentation, and within the evidence exhibits that are revealed after the murder. Additionally, there are other pieces of information that are not on the surface that you will need to dig into. Make a habit of noting every clue, even those that seem insignificant--it's often the small details that hold the key to solving the mystery. Think about anything unique in the evidence shared such as characters mentioned, handwriting, locations, or questions asked. These can form the base of your investigation. 

3. Observe the Other Players

In a murder mystery, the characters are often the most important source of information, as every suspect has their own goals and secrets. Observe their behavior, interactions, and try to piece together their motives. Look for inconsistencies in their stories and  whether they seem nervous or evasive when asked specific questions. Watch who they may be talking to and pulling aside throughout the game. 

4. Ask Questions

It may go without saying, but at a murder mystery party, asking questions is the most important thing you can do. Engage with the other characters to gather additional information. Ask open-ended questions to encourage discussion and get more details. Some good starting questions are, “how did you know the victim?”, “who do you think did it?”, or “have you seen anything suspicious from the other players?”

5. Look for Patterns

Patterns can reveal important insights into the mystery. Keep an eye out for recurring themes, words, storylines, or objects. These patterns might point to a hidden motive or suggest connections between characters. By identifying patterns, you can develop a deeper understanding of the mystery.

6. Take Notes

Taking notes is a valuable habit when solving a murder mystery. Write down important information, such as clues, character names, timelines, and possible suspects. Notes help you organize your thoughts and keep track of key details as the mystery unfolds.

7. Eliminate Red Herrings

Red herrings are false clues meant to mislead you, and they are present in every murder mystery party. As you gather information, be on the lookout for anything that seems too obvious or doesn't align with the rest of the evidence. By eliminating red herrings, you can focus on the real clues that lead to the solution.

8. Work as a Team

If you're solving a murder mystery with others, teamwork is essential. Think about who your character would naturally align with to solve the murder. Share information, brainstorm ideas, and collaborate to piece together the puzzle. Each team member may notice different details and have different information, and by combining your insights, you'll have a better chance of solving the mystery.

9. Use What You Have

As a suspect yourself, you have clues, information, money, and items to help you along the way. Some players might be tight-lipped at first, but they might give you a clue in exchange for something they need. You can also use information against them by offering to keep their secrets  in exchange for additional information. The pieces of information you know are one piece of the puzzle, so use it wisely! Once you feel like you have exhausted what you can learn naturally, don’t hesitate to play strategically. 

10. Have Fun

Finally, remember to have fun! Most folks do not solve the mystery the first time but there are so many goals and rabbit holes to follow, people still have a great time! Solving a murder mystery should be an enjoyable experience, so embrace the challenge and chaos that naturally follows! 

With these tips and tricks, you're well-equipped to tackle any murder mystery that comes your way. By following these strategies, you'll become a master detective in no time. Happy sleuthing!