Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective: The Thames Murders & Other Cases (1982) Board Game

Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective: The Thames Murders & Other Cases is a classic board game that was first released in in 1982. The game is designed for 1-8 players, with the best experience typically being with 2 players. It falls under the categories of deduction, murder/mystery, and story-based gameplay, making it a thrilling experience for fans of Sherlock Holmes and mystery-solving games.

Game Components of Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective: The Thames Murders & Other Cases

Game Book: Contains the cases, clues, and final solutions.

London Directory: A resource for finding locations and characters.

Newspapers: Used to gather clues and information.

Character Cards: Featuring Sherlock’s associates like Mycroft Holmes, Langdale Pike, and Porky Shinwell.

Case Files: Detailed descriptions of each case.

Paper and Pens: Recommended for note-taking and timeline building.

How To Setup Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective: The Thames Murders & Other Cases

To set up the game, players start by selecting a case from the ten available in the box. Each case includes an opening scene that sets the stage for the mystery. Players then use the London Directory, newspapers, and character cards to gather clues and piece together the events of the crime. It is highly recommended to use paper and pens to note down key events and build timelines to keep track of the intricate details.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Cooperative Play: Players work together to solve the mystery.

Clue-Gathering: Visit witnesses, suspects, and crime scenes to collect information.

Problem-Solving: Analyze clues and piece together the narrative of the crime.

Comparison with Sherlock: At the end, compare your solutions with Sherlock’s to see how well you did.

Objective: Solve the case by gathering and analyzing clues efficiently.

Player Experience

Playing Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective: The Thames Murders & Other Cases is a rich and immersive experience that challenges players to use their deductive skills. Each case is meticulously crafted to reflect the atmosphere of Victorian London, complete with historical accuracy. Players must navigate through the gaslit streets, interview suspects, and search newspapers for clues. The game encourages teamwork, debate, and careful analysis of the evidence. The presence of Sherlock Holmes’s associates and the shadowy influence of Moriarty add layers of complexity and intrigue.

Pros

Immersive Setting: The game thoroughly captures the essence of Victorian London and the Sherlock Holmes universe.

Challenging Cases: Ten detailed cases that require careful investigation and problem-solving.

Cooperative Fun: Perfect for game nights with friends and family.

High Replayability: Cases can be replayed, and fan-made cases are available online.

Engaging Mechanics: No dice or luck involved, making it a pure test of mental abilities.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be overwhelming due to the sheer amount of information and clues.

Time-Consuming: Each case can take several hours to solve.

Frustration: Some players may find it frustrating not to beat Sherlock’s score.

Personal Thoughts on Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective: The Thames Murders & Other Cases

This game is ideal for fans of Sherlock Holmes, mystery enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys cooperative gameplay and challenging puzzles. It’s a great choice for groups looking for a game that promotes teamwork and critical thinking. While it may not be suitable for younger children due to its complexity, it is a fantastic addition to any board game collection for those aged 14 and above. If you’re ready to step into the shoes of Sherlock Holmes and solve some of the most intriguing cases in Victorian London, this game is a must-play.

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