Murder at Skull Manor Costume Ball murder mystery

A fun Halloween murder mystery party for a minimum of 8 players to 12 players (this is the main game), ages 13+ due to difficulty. 45 unique character roles are available with the purchase of all three expansion packs (all packs purchased separately) in addition to the main game (this product).  Expansion packs will expand to accommodate 225 guests (see outline on how to host a large party below). 

This is the instant download upon purchase version of the game - no waiting and there's nothing to ship, so you avoid shipping fees! You will have everything you need in the PDF file to play the game. Easy to host, easy to prepare. 

There are four PDF files to download with this game - host instructions, printable materials, answer key, and the optional free invitation file.  You must use Adobe Reader (free software that you can download at Adobe.com) to view the PDF file, as a PDF is an Adobe product. 

Format: this is a traditional, mingling, clue-based game (downloadable version) for in-person groups. For virtually-formatted games that are ideal for video chat platforms, click here.

Gifting: the standard game license does not allow transfers, so you cannot purchase a download as a gift. For gifts, click here for gift certificates, or use the link below for the boxed version of the game (party pack). 

This game was updated on 07/15/24 and will not be seamless with previous versions of the game. 

Helpful Links:

Game Trailer Video

Host character list

Free, printable invitation

Sample game materials

12 character Expansion pack #1Purchased separately.

12 character Expansion pack #2 Purchased separately, after Expansion pack #1

9 character Expansion pack #3 Purchased separately, after Expansion packs #1, #2

Boxed version Our staff will print and prepare your kit for you. A spoiler-free option is available.

Free player pre-game site Your players can immediately get in on the action. 

Pinterest Board More Halloween DIY food, decor, party ideas

Mystery Synopsis:

It is time for the annual Skull Manor Costume Ball! The manor, an old estate in the heart of Spider City, is renowned for its captivating architecture, mysterious ambiance, and unspeakable history. The townspeople have been bustling about, preparing for a night filled with great food, engaging conversations, and outrageous gossip.

This year has been particularly challenging, marked by dissension and discord among many of Spider City's residents. Rumors of scandalous controversies, including blackmail and thievery, have been circulating through the town’s grapevine. Despite these tensions, everyone hopes to set aside their differences for a fun night. If not, misfortune might be on the horizon. This is where your story begins.

How to Host a Large Party:

The main game and all expansion packs are purchased separately. 

Main Game: 12 Suspect Player Roles (this product)

• 20+ Expandable Players as Darby Yontz’s Viking Tough Run Staff (Vikings)

Expansion Pack #1: 12 Suspect Player Roles (purchased separately)

• 20+ Expandable Players as Mo Plinker’s Colleagues (Contortionists)

Expansion Pack #2: 12 Suspect Player Roles  (purchased separately)

• 20+ Expandable Players as Bruce Kent’s Citizen’s on Patrol (Superheroes)

Expansion Pack #3: 9 Suspect Player Roles (purchased separately)

• 20+ Expandable Players as Bonnie Capone’s Mob (‘20s Gangsters)
• 20+ Expandable Players as Jess Bigsby’s Telemarketers (Business Casual)
• 20+ Expandable Players as Micki Fish’s Castmates (Monsters)
• 20+ Expandable Players as Vic Beeber’s Castmates (Reality Show Cast Members)
• 20+ Expandable Players as Kris Nance’s Cyborg Engineers (Cyborgs)
• 20+ Expandable Players as Stevie Jett’s World Travelers (Tourists)
• 20+ Expandable Players as Theo Wimbly’s Artifact Dealers (Mummies)
• 20+ Expandable Players as Heather Bank’s Entourage (Security)
• 20+ Expandable Players as Ash Spinx’s Managers (Witch/Wizards)

TOTAL PLAYERS: 225+ (45 suspects, 180 in duplicated expandable teams of non-suspects)

Commercial licensing:

If you wish to host this (or any other) game for profit &/or in public &/or as a benefit to your business or organization, you will need a commercial license - click here.