Top Murder Mystery Games for Thrilling Fun

When it comes to planning out a game night, nothing quite matches the excitement of a murder mystery game. While virtual party games have their place, there's something special about gathering around a physical board game. Mystery board games not only thrill and engage your guests with a whodunit scenario throughout the night, but they also offer a variety of experiences suitable for everyone from family members to close friends. Whether you're opting for a timeless classic like Clue for family fun, or seeking a more intricate experience like One Night Ultimate Werewolf for a thrilling evening with friends, there's a game for 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

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In this board game shopping guide, we've curated a selection of top-rated murder mystery games perfect for your next game night. While our choices are geared towards adults, each game offers a unique experience and accommodates a variety of player counts, ensuring you find the perfect match for your group's vibe! Have you tried any of these games yet?

Additional contributions by Hannah Houlihan

Clue

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Number of players: 2-6

Clue is not just a classic board game; it's a timeless murder mystery experience suitable for up to six players. Step into the shoes of a detective and unravel the mystery of who murdered Mr. Boddy in Tudor Mansion, along with the location and weapon used. It's an ideal choice for family game nights and ranks as one of the best family board games available.

One Night Ultimate Werewolf

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Number of players: 3-10

One Night Ultimate Werewolf offers a fast-paced twist on the beloved Werewolf game, perfect for larger groups. With no need for a moderator and no player elimination, you can enjoy a thrilling round with up to ten people, solving the mystery of who's the Werewolf in just one night. If you're looking for similar games, our guide to the best board games for large groups has more suggestions.

Mysterium

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Number of players: 2-7

Elevate your murder mystery experience with Mysterium, where one player becomes a ghost guiding the others, who play as psychics, to uncover the identity of their killer. This game, playable with up to seven players, offers a unique cooperative experience that lasts just over 40 minutes.

Exit: The Game – Dead Man on The Orient Express

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Number of players: 1-4

Transform your home into an escape room with Exit: The Game – Dead Man on The Orient Express. Dive into an Agatha Christie-inspired mystery and solve the case before the train reaches its destination. Note that this game is a one-time play, as you'll need to use and alter the materials in the box. Explore our guide on other escape room board games for more like this.

Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective - The Thames Murders & Other Cases

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Number of players: 1-8

Step into the world of Victorian London and solve 10 detailed mysteries with the Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective game. Whether playing solo or with friends, this series offers a challenging yet rewarding experience suitable for ages 12 and up, perfect for those seeking a deeper detective adventure.

Hunt a Killer – Death at The Dive Bar

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Number of players: 1+

For true crime enthusiasts, Hunt a Killer – Death at The Dive Bar offers an immersive puzzle experience. Solve the mystery behind the death of local bar owner Nick Webster, playable alone or with friends, in about 45-60 minutes.

University Games Murder Mystery Party Case Files: Underwood Cellars

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Number of players: 1+

Delve into a detailed murder mystery with Underwood Cellars, where you'll uncover the truth behind the disappearance and subsequent death of famed Napa winemaker Cary Underwood. This game, taking about 2 hours or more, provides an in-depth experience for mystery lovers.

Deception: Murder in Hong Kong

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Number of players: 4-12

Experience a quick 20-minute game of intrigue with Deception: Murder in Hong Kong. Similar to Werewolf, players assume roles such as Murderer, Accomplice, Forensic Scientist, Witness, and Investigators, working together or against each other to solve the mystery.

13 Dead End Drive

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Number of players: 2-4

Enjoy a classic murder mystery reminiscent of "Knives Out" with 13 Dead End Drive. In this game, Aunt Agatha has passed away, leaving her fortune up for grabs. Compete with up to four players, setting traps to outsmart your opponents and claim the inheritance.

MicroMacro: Crime City

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Number of players: 1-4

MicroMacro: Crime City offers 16 cases to solve with a unique Where's Waldo twist. With a magnifying glass included, this game challenges you to spot the details and solve mysteries in 15-45 minutes, playable with up to four people.

Rear Window

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Number of players: 3-5

Inspired by Hitchcock's thriller, Rear Window plays like Mysterium but adds a thrilling twist. One player, the director, sets up a scenario in four apartments and communicates clues silently. Sometimes, a murder occurs, turning the game into a tense battle between the director, who wins if the murder remains unsolved, and the other players, who must work together to uncover the truth.

Cryptic Killers: Murder of a Millionaire

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Number of players: 1-99

Cryptic Killers: Murder of a Millionaire is the first in a popular series, offering a solo or cooperative experience. Solve the murder of lottery winner Chloe through visual and text clues, logic puzzles, and detailed props. This game not only challenges your detective skills but also immerses you in a compelling narrative.

Detective: A Modern Crime Board Game

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Number of players: 1-5

Detective promises a realistic portrayal of police work, casting you as a modern detective with access to online case files. This game also boasts a long-term campaign where early cases can impact later ones, creating a gripping narrative. It's a complex and rewarding experience that draws you into a story worthy of top-tier drama.