Poolside Murder Mystery Party
A fun poolside-themed murder mystery party for any swimming pool or beach setting for 8-16+ players (co-ed), 14 and up. Hosting beside a swimming pool is not mandatory. You can invite over 60 guests by using the expandable characters that can play as teams - see the host character list and our FAQ for details about expandable teams. There are two more expansion packs with 6 more suspect players (purchased separately)! Have this party in your backyard, on the beach, or kick it up a notch to a luau for a Hawaiian spin!
This is the instant download version of the game - everything you need to play is included, so you avoid shipping fees - nothing needs to be shipped to you! For the party ready pack (boxed set), click on the link below in he helpful links section.
There are four PDF files to download with this game - a host instruction file, printable file, solution key, and an optional free invitation file.
Helpful Links:
- Host's character list - main game characters #1-16
- Free, 16 player printable invitation
- More DIY decor and food on Pinterest
- Game Trailer
- Sample game materials - view for content, format, and example plotlines
- 6 character expansion pack #1 (Purchased separately)
- 6 character expansion pack #2 (Purchased separately, it's best to play them in order)
- Boxed version - have our staff prepare your materials.
- Free, pre-game site at Your Mystery Party (If you add expansion packs, you'll use the invitation and pre-game site that comes with the expansion pack)
Murder Mystery Synopsis:
Sunny Shinewell's annual pool parties are the epitome of summertime splendor, known far and wide for their vibrant atmosphere, lavish settings, and the dazzling array of guests they attract. Year after year, these gatherings set the standard for high-spirited, luxurious fun under the sun. As expected, the who's who of the social scene, affectionately known as the usual suspects, will again make their way to Sunny's stylish abode, donned in their most spectacular poolside ensembles.
This year, like every year before, your much-anticipated invitation has arrived, promising another unforgettable day filled with sunshine, laughter, and the finest company. It's time to dive into your wardrobe and select the perfect outfit that speaks to comfort and class as you prepare to join the festivities. Whether you're lounging by the pool with a chilled drink in hand, mingling with the crowd, or making a splash, this day promises to be filled with delightful moments and memorable encounters. Your story kicks off here, in the heart of summer bliss, at Sunny Shinewell's legendary pool party. Get ready for a day of sun-kissed fun and unparalleled enjoyment!
How to Host a Large Party for 78+ players
- Main game has 16 unique suspect players
- Expandable Team #1 (main game, optional to use) - Makken R. Waves is the leader. Add up to 25+ Makken’s moocher friends (non-suspect team players)
- Expandable Team #2 (main game, optional to use) - Tele Evitang is the leader. Add up to 25+ Evitang family members (non-suspect team players)
- Expansion pack #1 has 6 unique suspect players (purchased separately)
- Expansion pack #2 has 6 unique suspect players (purchased separately)
Therefore, if you purchase the main game and both expansion packs, you will receive 28 unique suspect roles (8 required to play), and the ability to add 50+ team players with the two optional teams that come with the main game and host a party with materials for 78+ players.
Commercial licensing:
If you wish to host this (or any other) game for profit &/or in public &/or as a benefit to your organization or business - you will need a commercial license - click here.
- Minimum age:
- 14 years for difficulty
- Difficulty rating:
- Moderate, 6/10
- Gender of character roles:
- Co-ed, flex with expansion pack #2 (purchased separately)
- # of players in main game:
- 8 -16 players
- Expansion pack(s):
- 6 players (#1) and 6 players (#2). It's best to play them in order.
- Expandable team players:
- Main game has two expandable (non-suspect player) teams to add 50+ players.
- Date of publication:
- 2010. This game was updated on 4/22/24.
Reviews
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Fun!
I have hosted a few of these parties, and this one did not disappoint. I chose this one because the college kids were all home at the same time, and they grew up swimming in my friend’s backyard pool. I like that this one had easy costumes do that college kids home with few clothes don’t have to worry about coming up with something. We also liked the pool theme, but it isn’t necessary to host this one at a pool; it is just an added bonus. It was hilarious watching everyone start to slowly figure out who was going to become the victim and then start accusing their childhood friends of the crime! This one was a bit easier to solve than some, so it was good for the first-timers attending. Now, of course, they are all asking when the next one will be. Thanks, MMP!
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Pandemonium at the Poolside
Hosted this at our local swimming pool. Kids aged 11-16 attended. They had a great time. Will definitely try another!
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Best Work Party Event Ever
Our team is still raving about the fun they had. I received a lot of credit for throwing the BEST PARTY EVER, although MMP deserves all of the credit. The characters were a blast and everyone really got into the game. Our pre-party communication really got everyone excited to come in costume and play out their characters. We will be talking about this party for a long time. Everyone is already asking when the next one is and they are taking a survey to pick the next theme
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Super easy to host, so much fun!
Amazing time was had by all. I found it simple to host and was able to play along with my friends. Will definitely do another one soon! Thanks!
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Great pool party!
Everyone had a great time, getting into character was made easy by the self-explanatory materials. The only downfall was that there was so much reading required for the host. Truly a great time was had by all. Thank you for making this creative entertainment so easy to carry out. We had dramatic players as well as more reserved personalities and the varied characters accommodated everyone.