We researched the best options, considering the recommended age, number of players, and content themes of each. Our favorite picks include a London-based mystery game from Ravensburger, an escape room suitable for the living room from Professor Puzzle, and a kid-friendly option featuring a sneaky fox from Gamewright. Here, the best mystery board games available online for kids and adults. Travel by tube, bus, and foot to try to block Mr. X’s path on the intricate game board featuring different routes and paths across the busy city. Players must use deductive reasoning and problem-solving skills to think like a detective (or a criminal) and reach their goals. Since many of the players work together, this board game works best with a large group, but note that younger players may need a bit of extra help to get started. Price at time of publish: $40 Price at time of publish: $30 The linear format makes it easy to know that you’re on the right track, which is more streamlined than other case file mystery games. This offers players a clearer path when beginning and may be a better introduction to this type of games for beginners. Some found certain clues to be misleading or that they even contained spoilers, which just adds to this pick’s fun challenge. Price at time of publish: $27 Price at time of publish: $50 Price at time of publish: $46 Price at time of publish: $44 Price at time of publish: $15 Price at time of publish: $29 Price at time of publish: $42 Price at time of publish: $19 Price at time of publish: $19 It’s also no fun to play a game that’s too easy for your skill set. Thus, adults should look for picks suitable for teens and above, like Asmodee’s Mysterium, to ensure an engaging challenge. Luckily, there are games that still involve a thrilling mystery, designed just for kids, such as Gamewright’s Outfoxed.
Number of Players
Consider the context in which you want to play your mystery game, whether it be alone on a rainy day or with a large group of friends at a murder mystery party. Different games accommodate different numbers of players. For a large party, we love our best overall pick, Ravensburger’s Scotland Yard. The cooperative element allows for more players to join in and work as a team. Most case file-based games like Unsolved Case File’s murder mystery game work just as well alone as with a large group. Be sure to check the recommended number of players before purchasing, so it works well with your family or lifestyle.
Content Themes
Oftentimes, mystery games feature dark themes, including ghosts or murder. This can be very unsettling for young kids (or even adults), so it’s important to look into the content of a mystery game before diving in. Most game boxes offer a quick description of the game, so you can get a gist of the possibly triggering elements. Some have the word “murder” or “haunted” in the name, which takes away the guesswork. Small kids should look to games made specifically to them to avoid these scary themes, while teens and adults can pick and choose the topics that feel suitable to them. This list features various themes for various ages, so it should be possible to find one perfect for you and your group.
Why Trust the Spruce?
This article was written by Anne Fritz, a freelance writer with over 20 years of experience covering home topics. Previously an editor, her work has appeared in several leading publications. Additional research was done by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays since October 2021. Before that, she covered similar topics including toy reviews, product roundups, expert-focused articles, and more.
