So, you’ve got your murder mystery game on lock, the date is set, and the guest list is growing.
Now comes the fun part: deciding who plays who!
When you have a list of up to 20 options, that can seem a tricky task, so here are a few of my top tips to get you started.
More Ideas:
đź”—The Perfect Murder Mystery Party: Tips and Tricks for Hosting a Killer Event
đź”— Murder Mystery Party Planning Checklist: Everything You Need To Know
Let’s dive in!
In each game you purchase, the number of characters available depends on the guest count, ranging from 5-10, 8-15, or 10-20. The smaller number indicates the required players for the game to function properly. The second number is the maximum players (or characters) in the game.
For instance, in my 10-20 player evidence-based mingling games, the first 10 characters are suspects, victims, or possess crucial information, so it’s essential to assign them to those who will definitely participate. To accommodate friends who may be less reliable, there are the secondary characters, which also is written with motives and complete character bios, but are not essential to the story.
If you want more evidence pieces that include the secondary characters, you can buy the Expansion Pack for the specific game you want.
Know Your Players
Before you start handing out character sheets like candy, take a good look at your guest list. Who’s the life of the party? Who’s the quiet observer? Matching personalities to characters can elevate your game to a whole new level.
In your game kit, you will get a valuable document called “Character Overview,” providing a brief description of each character, their traits, and a costume suggestion.
This tool is essential for selecting which character each of your guests will portray.
The first characters presented are the core ones (Primary Characters). And next on the list is the optinal ones (Secondary Characters).
It’s like a cheat sheet for you and your guests. Use this to your advantage! Match your guests’ vibes to the characters that will let their personalities shine.
Dress Rehearsal Dreams
Love the idea of your friends rocking a completely different look? Some people thrive on the opportunity to dress up as the opposite sex or channel their inner villain. Just remember, fake mustaches and wigs have a habit of disappearing into thin air during the chaos of a murder mystery party so get your pictures in early!
Similarly if you have a friend you know won’t have time to shop or who doesn’t really like dressing up, there are always a few characters you can play with just a prop or two to compliment your usual clothes.
Let Your Guests Choose Their Fate
Want to avoid any potential drama? Let your guests pick their characters! Create a group chat or send out a character list and let the bidding begin. Just make sure to save your favorite role for yourself!
Remember, the most important thing is to have fun! So, grab a glass of wine, put on your party hat, and let the character assigning commence!
