How to prepare for a freeform murder mystery

Preparing for a freeform murder mystery is a little different depending on whether you are hosting the party or simply turning up to play.

The host has some preparation to do beforehand, while players have much less to worry about. But a little preparation from everyone helps the party run smoothly.

Preparing as the host

As the host, you’ll need to prepare before the party. Don’t worry – our games include detailed instructions that take you through everything you need to do.

Before the party, you will need to:

• Purchase and download the game.
• Read the instructions and background so that you understand how the game works and what will happen during the party. You don’t need to read every character booklet (although you can if you want to).
• Print the game materials. These include the character booklets, items, handouts and game money.
• Prepare a packet for each character, containing their character booklet and anything else they start the game with, such as items or money.
• Invite your players. It’s a good idea to ask for firm responses, as knowing your numbers makes casting much easier.
• Decide who will play which character. Our games include a casting guide to help you match your guests to suitable roles.
• Send players their character information in advance, if you wish. This gives them time to think about their character and plan a costume, but it isn’t essential.
  Prepare the venue. You don’t need elaborate decorations, but a few themed touches can help set the scene.
  Arrange food and drinks. Freeform murder mysteries work particularly well with a buffet or finger food, as players can continue talking, plotting and investigating while they eat. You can, of course, delegate the catering to someone else.

On the day itself, you’ll also facilitate the party. That means getting everyone started, introducing new information at the appropriate times and keeping an eye on how things are progressing.

You don’t need to direct what everyone does. Once the game gets going, the players decide for themselves who to talk to, what to investigate and how to pursue their objectives. Your job is mostly to keep everything running smoothly.

Preparing as a player

Players have much less preparation to do.

If you’ve been invited to a freeform murder mystery, you should:

• Let the host know whether you’re coming. Player numbers matter, so tell them as soon as possible if your plans change.
• Read the game background so that you understand the setting and situation before you arrive.
• Read your character booklet, if the host sends it to you in advance. This will explain who you are, what you know and what you are trying to achieve.
• Find an appropriate costume. Dressing up isn’t essential to playing the game, but it helps create the atmosphere – and for many people it’s part of the fun.
• Arrive on time and ready to play. Freeform murder mysteries work best when everyone starts together.

You don’t need to memorise your character booklet or prepare a performance. You’ll have your character information available during the game, and there’s no script to learn.

Once the party begins, the important thing is to get involved: talk to the other characters, follow up on anything suspicious, pursue your objectives and see where the story takes you.