Electronic Detective (1979) Board Game

Electronic Detective is a board game released in 1979 that combines electronic components with classic deduction gameplay. Designed by Julius Cooper and Phil Orbanes Sr., the game challenges players to solve a murder mystery using clues and deductive reasoning. With its unique electronic feature, Electronic Detective was ahead of its time and offered a new twist on traditional board games.

Game Components of Electronic Detective

Game Console: Features an LCD display, input buttons, and a speaker.

Suspect Cards: 20 cards, each named and illustrated, with one being the murderer and another the victim.

Case Fact Sheets: Used to track clues and solve the case.

Instruction Manual: Detailed guide on setting up and playing the game.

Quick Start Guide: Summarizes key information from the cards.

Batteries: Requires six double-A or penlight batteries.

How To Setup Electronic Detective

To set up the game, place the suspect cards in their holder, select the difficulty level and number of players, and begin by identifying the victim and the location of the crime. The game console guides players through the setup process, including a funeral dirge and a silent shot sound effect to set the mood.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Investigation: Players ask public and private questions to suspects using the keypad.

Clue Gathering: The LCD display provides alibis and key clues.

Location Tracking: Suspects are located in one of five different city locations, which change randomly each game.

Accusation: Players must accuse the correct suspect to win; incorrect accusations result in being eliminated.

Objective: Identify the murderer among 19 suspects by gathering and analyzing clues.

Player Experience

Playing Electronic Detective is an engaging and challenging experience, particularly for those who enjoy mystery and detective work. The game requires logical thinking and strategic questioning to narrow down the list of suspects. With over 130,000 possible cases, the game offers high replayability.

Pros

High Replayability: Over 130,000 different cases to solve.

Interactive: Utilizes a keypad and LCD display for a dynamic experience.

Challenging: Encourages logical thinking and strategic planning.

Nostalgic: A classic game from 1979 that retains its charm.

Cons

Complex Setup: Requires careful reading of the instruction manual.

Battery-Driven: Needs six batteries to operate, which can be a drawback.

Stereoypes: Some character illustrations may contain crude stereotypes.

Personal Thoughts on Electronic Detective

Electronic Detective is ideal for those who enjoy puzzle games, detective mysteries, and retro gaming. It’s a great choice for families or groups of friends looking for a challenging and fun experience. The game’s complexity and unique mechanics make it stand out as a classic in the world of board games. However, it may not be as appealing to players seeking simpler, more modern gaming experiences.

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