Are you ready to host an unforgettable murder mystery party at home? Whether you’re looking to throw a lively cocktail party or an elegant dinner party, we’ve got the perfect mystery game format for you! At Shot In The Dark Mysteries, our interactive “Mingle” and “Dinner Party” formats have been delighting hosts and guests for over two decades. Let’s dive into the key differences and help you choose the best fit for your next mystery night.

A martini glass on a murder mystery dinner party table with the Shot In The Dark Mysteries logo

SHOT’s Beloved Interactive “Mingle” Mystery Party Game

Our “Mingle” format is a classic favorite, perfect for those who love a dynamic and interactive murder mystery game. Here’s how it unfolds:

  • Guests arrive and start mingling
  • The Announcement of Murder (or theft!) sets the stage
  • Guests interact, questioning each other to find the person who had the motive, means and opportunity to commit the crime
  • Sleuths cast accusations on their Accusation Forms. Once they have been turned in, everyone makes their accusation known!
  • The “Big Reveal” uncovers the culprit

This format is ideal for those who prefer a cocktail party atmosphere, where guests can move around and engage with each other freely. This is the format we have offered publicly for over two decades, and has kept our “Serial Hosts” coming back for more!

The Interactive Dinner Party Mystery Game

For those who enjoy a more structured experience, our “Dinner Party” format offers the perfect blend of dining and mystery-solving. Here’s the flow:

  • Guests/Participants arrive
  • Cocktails/Mingling/Suspect “Introductions” (one-on-one or to the group en masse) 
  • Appetisers & Announcement of Murder/Theft, Initial Investigations and Share Information 
  • First Break 
  • Main Course/Further Investigations/Questioning 
  • Last Break/One-On-One Investigations 
  • Dessert/Coffee/Tea, Accusations & The Big Reveal

This format is perfect for those who want to host a dinner party murder mystery game, providing an intimate setting for one-on-one investigations. It challenges guests to be cunning, as they must carefully craft questions without revealing their theories to others.

Choosing the Right Mystery Game Format for Your Home Murder Mystery Game

Okay, so which one is for you?

Well, first let’s consider your hosting style: Do you prefer a cocktail party vibe or a formal dinner setting?

Next, let’s think about your guests’ sleuthing skills: The Dinner Party format requires more strategic questioning, because aside from the one-on-one investigations, they will be questioning the suspects in front of everyone else

Lastly, what are your host capabilities? Can you manage rolling out a three-course meal alongside the mystery game?

Pro-Tip for Hosts

If your budget allows, hire a caterer or a server for the evening. This way, you can focus on enjoying the event and solving the mystery with your guests!

Ultimately, the choice between the Interactive Mingle Mystery Party Game and the Interactive Dinner Party Mystery Game depends on your vision for your party and your unique hosting style. Whichever format you choose, you’ll experience the unique and fun atmosphere that has made our games a hit for over two decades!

Host a dinner party murder mystery party at home and get ready for a night you and your guests will never forget! Ready to host a night of mystery and excitement? Choose your format and get ready for a KILLER night!