This term refers to a genre of online multiplayer social deduction experiences. These games typically involve players assigned hidden roles, some benevolent and some malevolent, who must use logic, deception, and social maneuvering to identify and eliminate their opponents. A key element is often a day/night cycle, where discussions and accusations occur during the day, and actions like role-based eliminations take place at night. Titles fitting this description include “Among Us,” “Secret Hitler,” and “Deceit.”
The appeal of such games rests in their ability to foster strategic thinking, communication skills, and the ability to analyze human behavior. Their popularity has grown significantly due to their accessibility on various platforms and the inherent drama created by the blend of cooperation and betrayal. Early influences can be traced back to party games like “Mafia” (also known as “Werewolf”), which share core mechanics of hidden roles and social deduction.