Online murder mystery games with no printing
Updated
Printed murder mystery kits ask the host to print character sheets, cut out clues and keep track of which envelope to open when. A phone-based game moves all of that onto the guests' phones. Here is how the two compare and what to check before you buy.
How a phone-based game works
The host starts a game and gets a room code or a link. Guests join on their own phones and are dealt characters. Everything private, such as secrets and objectives, stays on that guest's phone. Shared evidence appears on a TV or laptop, or on every phone.
What you need
A phone per player, an internet connection, and a TV or laptop if you want a shared screen. No printing, no props and no host script.
Printed kits versus phone games
Both can be a great night. The differences are practical.
- Setup: printed kits need printing and sorting, phone games need a link
- Late changes: printed kits fix the cast, phone games deal the cast on the night
- Pacing: printed kits rely on a host, phone games keep time for you
- Surprises: phone games can keep information hidden until the right moment
- Cost: printed kits cost paper and ink, phone games cost nothing to run after purchase
What to look for
Check that the game works in a browser, so nobody has to install an app. Look for a clear player count, an age rating and a content note. Check the refund policy: a good seller will stand behind a night that was spoiled by a fault.
Quick answers
Do guests need to install an app?
Not with a browser-based game. Guests open a link or enter a room code on their phone.
Can we play over video call?
Yes. Each player joins from their own device, whether they are in the room or remote.