When I introduce the hobby of murder mysteries, I often liken it to stepping into a main character's shoes within a movie, where you experience the unfolding events in real-time, with the freedom to shape the narrative through your actions and words.
Murder mysteries encapsulate the best elements of escape rooms – physical immersion and meticulously crafted props – and role-playing games (RPGs) – allowing players to inhabit unique characters and escape into alternate realities.
As a murder mystery host, I prioritize immersion, both through passive and active spectacles. With each session, I experiment and refine my setup, aiming to enhance the overall experience. Here are three tips to elevate your physical sets:
1) Handouts and Items:
Instead of simply describing clues or handing out cards, strive to create physical props whenever possible. Letters, reports, and tickets can be brought to life fairly easily with aging techniques or wax seals. You can find inspirations from the RPG community or cosplay community. Check out this video for inspiration on aging letters.
Transforming a text into tangible props adds depth and realism to the game world.
2) Environment props.
Utilize blackout curtains and smart lighting systems like Philips Hue to transform your gaming space into a cinematic setting. From sudden flashes of lightning to conjuring a snowstorm, small effects on the environment can heighten immersion.
Do not forget to invoke the other senses - A flickering flame with an approprate scent can go great lengths in immersion. Imagine entering oriental temple with the slow burning scent of incense, or lost in the fae forest surrounded by the fresh smell of pine.
3) Background music
Selecting appropriate background music is the most pivotal aspect of crafting immersive environments. The key is to prepare multiple tracks that you can switch to during the different phases of the game. I usually like to find one for the opening introduction, one during the investigation phase, and one for the climax discussion phase.
Look for soundtracks from movies or shows that align with the theme of your murder mystery. Opt for tracks that seamlessly blend into the background, setting the tone without overshadowing gameplay. Avoid sudden tone shifts or distracting elements that disrupt the flow of the narrative.
Stay tuned for a curated list of tracks suitable for various scenarios!
Incoporating these techniques will elevate your GM skills and immerse players in unforgettable murder mystery experiences. Follow me for updates and exclusive content, including a curated playlist of immersive tracks!
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