MurderAt

Dark Secrets Await in MurderAt

In MurderAt, set against the backdrop of a turbulent election in London, 1889, players step into the shoes of an inexperienced inspector. With the façade of high society shattered by the discovery of a locked-room murder, it falls upon you to unravel a mystery that grips Seraphim House and the shadows of its adjoining Botanical Garden.

A Haunting Art Style

The game captured players’ imaginations with its striking interactive graphic novel format. Each scene is meticulously hand-drawn using ink and brush, offering a monochrome world that transforms every frame into dark, tactile art. Creative director Patrick Garbit's unique calligraphic style enhances the eerie atmosphere, making exploration as visually compelling as the narrative itself.

Engaging Mysteries and Challenging Mechanics

Investigation in MurderAt is distinctly engaging. Departing from typical adventure titles, there are no intrusive tutorials or highlighted clues. Players are compelled to examine documents, scrutinize crime scenes, and collaborate on their deductions. The game's pacing aligns with luminaries like Return of the Obra Dinn, making each discovery feel earned and crucial to solving the mystery.

Light as Your Tool

Within the oppressive shadows of the mansion, light becomes an essential tool for uncovering the truth. Matches, candles, and lamps serve a practical purpose, revealing hidden clues that could turn the tide of the investigation. Yet, darkness also harbors secrets, hinting at the dangers that lie within the motives of the estate’s inhabitants.

Navigate a Web of Conspiracies

As players delve deeper, they'll confront a narrative rich with 19th-century conspiracy, familial conflicts, and political machinations. The cast of characters ranges from unscrupulous industrialists to devoted allies, each layered with complexity. Interrogating suspects is done through an organic, notebook system that develops the narrative based on your choices, leading to a labyrinthine plot where every decision counts.

Two Modes of Investigation

Mode selection impacts how players interact with the story. In Sergeant Mode, the in-game journal assists in mapping out discoveries and locations. Conversely, Detective Mode disables the journal, urging players to employ real-life note-taking to piece together evidence. This mechanical choice significantly alters how the narrative unfolds, catering to players who seek a more intense experience.

The Weight of Justice in Players’ Hands

MurderAt challenges its players to confront morality: does solving a crime equate to administering justice? Each suspect holds a potential conclusion, and the choices made throughout the game may lead to consequences that linger long after the case is closed. This moral ambiguity enriches the experience, ensuring that every decision carries weight.