How to question a suspect at a murder mystery party

At a murder mystery party, the investigation moves forward through questions. A good interrogation can bring down an alibi in two minutes. Here is how to question a suspect effectively, without turning the evening into a courtroom.

1. Start broad, finish precise

Open with a simple question: "tell me about your evening". Let them talk. Then narrow it down: "what time did you leave?", "who was with you?", "what did you see on the way back?". The more precise the questions, the harder it is to lie.

2. Questions that work

• Where were you at the time of the crime? The central question, to ask everyone.
• Who can confirm that? It tests the alibi.
• Why did you not mention it earlier? It reassures those who forgot and unsettles those who hid something.
• What did you think of the victim? It brings out motives.

3. Compare versions

Question two suspects separately about the same moment, then compare. If one says 11 pm and the other midnight, one is lying, or mistaken. That is where the case files become precious: a receipt, a photo, a record can settle it.

4. Show evidence at the right moment

Let the suspect commit to their version, then put down the evidence that contradicts it. It is often the strongest moment of a game. Show it too early and they will simply adjust their story.

5. Use the questioning cards

Our cases include cards that force a suspect to tell the truth: "Official questioning" cards in The Vernier Case, "Truth question" cards in La Queimada du Pazo. Save them for the decisive question. One exception: the killer may always lie.

Careful: "Are you the killer?" is a forbidden question. You ask about facts and secrets.

6. Keep it fun

A good interrogation stays enjoyable. No hounding: if a player feels trapped and uncomfortable, give them room and move on to someone else. The goal is to have fun together.

7. Write down what you learn

A small notebook, three columns: who, where, when. In act III, when it is time to accuse, you will be glad to remember who said what.

For the last step, read how to nail the final accusation, and learn to read clues like a real detective.