"SLEUTH! The Murder-Mystery Family Board Game box cover, featuring a cartoon-style illustration of a female detective with a magnifying glass, and a steam train in the background, recommended for ages 10+ and 2-6 players."
| | | | | | | |

Sleuth (1971)

Sleuth

Sleuth is a strategy deduction card game designed by Sid Sackson and published by 3M in 1971. It is a reimplementation of the 1967 game The Case of the Elusive Assassin without the game board.

Why is Sleuth Popular?

Sleuth is a classic deduction game that has been popular for decades. Players are searching for a missing gem by questioning other players and gathering evidence, similar to Cluedo. The game is significant because it is a well-designed strategy game that requires players to use their deduction skills to win.

Game Components of Sleuth

Deck of 36 Gem Cards, with each card picturing a gem (diamond, pearl, or opal), type (solitaire, pair, or cluster), and color (red, blue, green, or yellow).Deck of 54 Search Cards, with each card representing a single element, a combination of two elements, or a free choice.One card is randomly removed from the Gem deck at the start of the game to be the missing gemstone.

Game Setup of Sleuth

Shuffle the Gem Cards and place them face down in the center of the table.Shuffle the Search Cards and deal one to each player.The player with the highest Search Card goes first.The first player draws a Gem Card and asks any other player if they have a particular type of gemstone.If the player being asked has a card that matches the description, they must show it to the player who asked.If the player being asked does not have a matching card, play continues to the left.Players can also use Search Cards to ask more specific questions or to eliminate certain possibilities.

Gameplay Mechanics of Sleuth

Sleuth is a deduction game where players must use their skills to deduce the identity of a missing gem. Players ask each other questions about the type, color, and shape of the gemstones in their hands. They can also use Search Cards to ask more specific questions or to eliminate certain possibilities. The game is won by the player who correctly deduces the identity of the missing gem.

Game Objective of Sleuth

The objective of Sleuth is to deduce the identity of a missing gem by questioning other players and gathering evidence.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more