Whodunit? The Thrill of Murder Mystery Games for Family Nights
Tired of the same old puzzle games for family night? How about injecting some mystery and suspense for the next time? We promise this ‘family games for family night’ idea is interactive and exciting enough to engage every member of your family!
Murder mystery games are some of the best games for family game nights. They are thrilling as you race against time to find the killer amongst those around you. All you and your family have to do is investigate the crime, search for clues, and interrogate suspects. And today, there’s an amazing selection of murder mystery games available in stores and online. So, you can definitely find the one your family will enjoy!
In this blog, we will explore the types of mystery games you can play. We will also share tips on making it perfect for your younger family members. Let’s get started on solving this mystery!
The Best Murder Mystery Games for Family Night
Murder mystery games can be fun when it comes to hunting down the guilty suspect at the family gathering. Below, we will cover the various types of best murder mystery games, from the more physical ones to the online ones. There’s something for everyone in this list!
- Board and Card Games
Looking for a game that combines strategic thinking with immersive activity? Board and card games are the solution. They come with crime-solving scripts and clue cards that help you piece together evidence and identify the culprit.
- Outdoor Hunts
If it’s a family day and not a night, take the investigation outdoors! Hunting for clues outdoors can be a breath of fresh air, especially if the weather is great. This type of family mystery game offers sensory simulation and increased movement. You also get to explore your surroundings anew. Also, it feels almost realistic, akin to movies and stories, which heightens the challenge.
- Theater Games
Theater games are interactive family games for family night, for those who thrive in dramatic scenarios. The suspense is increased, particularly with a cast of quirky characters. As everyone (but the victim) solves the case, the performers act out scenes. This allows the guests to observe and draw conclusions to determine who did it.
- Online Games
How to host a family game night when most members aren’t even in the same city? Murder mystery games online are the solution! And these are especially creative because you would have to engage in role-playing.
Family mystery games from online companies, like Mystery Enterprises, provide players with instruction videos and character profiles. You will also have objectives that you need to complete. And then vote for whoever you think the killer is. It might get dramatic as accusations fly and theories are made, but overall, it’s a fun and memorable experience.
Age Group Considerations for Mystery Game Nights
No matter which type of game you pick, hosting a murder mystery game for family night comes with certain considerations. Particularly, concerning the age groups in your family gathering.
Obviously, it’s important to pick an age-appropriate setting so that everyone can enjoy it without discomfort or anxiety. Most families have an expansive age range, from grandparents to adolescents. Here’s how you can select the right game for your family:
- Teen-Rated Games
Teen-rated games are a safe choice for most families. They offer engaging plots while avoiding mature themes. However, they aren’t boring for adults. It can be equally intriguing and immersive for the adult members, but the plot will lack risqué themes.
- Younger Kids
Not all mystery games have to include murder and mayhem. Many mystery games are inspired by nursery rhymes and have dressing-up opportunities. Ideally, an outdoor hunt-type game would be good for kids, especially around your home. A scavenger hunt with riddles as clues could be fun for both younger kids and adults.
Levels of Participation and Reading for Younger Members
Before you decide on a game, you need to remember that not all children–both teens and younger kids–are alright about acting out roles or reading scripts. Consider the confidence and reading levels of the younger members. Some might be delighted to read and act, while others may prefer silently observing or joining the game in their own way.
Sometimes, younger children also lose interest. So, include activities that let them join and leave the game without interruptions.
When planning a murder mystery game family night, there’s much to consider. But it doesn’t need to be a stressful time! There are many options to choose from and fun ways to customize your night. It’s elementary, isn’t it?
