Key - Theft in Cliffrock Villa Game

Investigators of all ages can pit their deductive skills against up to three other investigators in these multi-use mystery games. Each game includes four briefcase screens, dry erase investigation files, dry erase markers, wooden keys in different colors, and over one hundred cards with bits of either lab information or eyewitness statements. The group chooses one wooden key to start, and places it on the table with all of the cards. Players work independently, drawing cards that have a color block that matches the color of the wooden key, analyzing the evidence and making notes in their lab report. When one investigator has narrowed down their options to determine a perpetrator, a weapon, a place and other details, they will be left with a number code. Then it’s time to grab the key, insert it into the solution board on the lock that matches the code, and see if they were right! After the case is closed, all players total the points on their cards used, and the player with the lowest number of points wins. With 9 colored keys in each game, you can play again and again with different variants on the same case. There are even options for solo play.

Our family has long enjoyed playing co-operative games from Family Pastimes. We play competitive ones, too, but enjoy fostering team spirit as we all work toward achieving a goal. If you haven't tried this alternative to playing together, here's an assortment of some of our favorites from this company.