These interactive entertainment formats involve a sizable number of participants in a simulated crime-solving scenario. Participants assume roles, investigate clues, and interact to deduce the perpetrator of a fictional homicide. For instance, a themed gathering could involve dozens of individuals portraying characters within a storyline, such as a 1920s speakeasy or a Victorian manor, each with secrets and motives connected to the central mystery.
The appeal of these events stems from their ability to foster collaboration, communication, and critical thinking. Participants must engage actively, analyze information, and strategize to achieve a common objective. Historically, such forms of immersive theatrical experiences have evolved from parlor games to elaborate, organized events, often incorporating professional actors and intricate narratives, offering engaging social experiences that promote teamwork and problem-solving skills.