In MOUSE: P.I. For Hire, you embark on an adventure through the corrupt city of Mouseburg. The story kicks off with a classic noir trope: a distressed dame seeking help. What begins as a simple case quickly spirals into a complex web of murders, corruption, and unexpected enemies lurking in the city’s dark underbelly. The narrative heavily draws on old noir films, delivering a tale of intrigue and danger that feels both fresh and nostalgic.

What sets MOUSE apart is its bold visual style, reminiscent of the retro “rubber-hose” animation seen in Cuphead. The black-and-white, hand-drawn aesthetic evokes the charm of 1930s cartoons, paired with a jazz soundtrack that enhances the noir atmosphere. As a first-person shooter, MOUSE promises fast-paced action, with Jack Pepper wielding an arsenal from classic tommy guns to quirky weapons that melt enemies.

The post Troy Baker Stars as a Noir Mouse Detective in MOUSE: P.I. For Hire first appeared on IndieGames.

“What initially drew us to Shadowlight was a collaborative development philosophy to deliver premium narrative games for PC and console audiences”, said Kim Seung-chul, Co-CEO of NEOWIZ. “We look forward to working closely with the team to release Kill the Shadow globally, and we hope audiences find the same charm we experienced as we reveal more about the title.”

Black, CEO of Shadowlight, stated: “NEOWIZ is a reliable global publisher, and we were grateful to find a partner who shares our philosophy on game development. As we see the games industry evolve to be inclusive of other cultures, it’s important to have a publisher that is open to collaborating and emphasizing the significance of your content.”

Kill the Shadow transports you to a divided city after a war, where gritty streets and eerie environments await. The game blends highly detailed 3D settings with charming 2D pixel art characters, giving the world of Darkwater a unique, haunting atmosphere. In this shadowy world, you’ll play as Detective Ah’Guang, a skilled investigator who must solve a series of strange murders across the city. You can use your intelligence and charm or violence to uncover evidence.

The post NEOWIZ Signs Publishing Deal For Kill the Shadow first appeared on IndieGames.

Some of the game scenes are actual reconstructions of places you can still visit today, while others are faithful recreations of typical locations from that era, such as a newspaper editorial office, a writer’s study, or an industrialist’s private garden. But the love for historical accuracy goes much further: the way people speak, the objects the player can use, and even the murder cases themselves are all appropriate to the time and place.

With multiple endings that change based on your choices, this title blends historical atmosphere and classic adventure mechanics. In case you’re wondering how it all works, you can also try out the demo right now on Steam. We recently had a chance to chat with Gregor and dive deeper into the game. He told us all about the game mechanics, the meaning behind its name, why he chose pixel art, his Kickstarter campaign, and his experience working as a solo developer.

Additionally, Casebook 1899 – The Leipzig Murders is set for a 2025 PC release on Steam and GOG.

What inspired you to create Casebook 1899 – The Leipzig Murders, and why did you choose a detective adventure set in 1899 Leipzig?

Leipzig is the city I live in, and I’ve always been fascinated by its history. The period around the end of the 19th century is particularly compelling, as the city was undergoing rapid growth. Technological advancements and social upheavals during that time offer rich potential for conflict and complex moral dilemmas, perfect ingredients for crime fiction. It felt like the ideal setting for a detective story.

What’s the significance behind the game’s title, Casebook 1899?

The title Casebook 1899 – The Leipzig Murders is intentionally descriptive, giving players a clear idea of what to expect. The “casebook” is a central gameplay element, a notebook where players collect and combine clues. It’s the most-used tool in the game and essential to solving each case.

Is there a deeper philosophical meaning or theme woven into the game’s narrative?

Yes. As players progress, they’ll encounter themes centered around the nature of truth and the extent of free will. The game offers complete freedom in how each case is resolved, even allowing players to conclude that no crime occurred at all, attributing events to a series of strange coincidences. Ultimately, players must take responsibility for their interpretations and decisions.

The game is described as a “richly atmospheric” point-and-click adventure. How did you craft the late 19th-century Leipzig setting to immerse players?

I used a wealth of historical photographs and postcards from the late 19th century as references to recreate key locations. Some iconic landmarks still exist today, while others, lost during World War II or later, are brought back to life in the game. The postcards were especially helpful because they’re in color, unlike the black-and-white photos of the era. I also paid close attention to sound design, crafting a realistic soundscape for each location to help players feel as though they’re truly wandering through a bustling city at the turn of the century.

Did you conduct any historical research to ensure the settings and characters feel authentic to the period?

Absolutely. The characters speak in carefully crafted language appropriate to the time. For instance, I avoided using modern German terms that didn’t exist in 1899. Characters also interact with the protagonist in ways that reflect their social standing, whether above or below that of a police detective. Social status even affects gameplay: while the protagonist’s companion, a public prosecutor, may enter a stately villa through the front door, the detective must use the servants’ entrance, after solving a puzzle, of course.

Can you describe Detective Joseph Kreiser’s personality, motivations, and how players will connect with him?

Joseph Kreiser is a skilled conversationalist who excels at getting people to open up. He has a keen sense for detecting lies and genuinely understands people. He’s deeply committed to his work and values truth, which makes the moral decisions he faces later in the game especially difficult. His strengths in dialogue over investigation are reflected in gameplay – he can ask his companion to help spot clues. But relying too much on others can also become a limitation.

Could you provide a brief overview of the game’s core mechanics? How significant are player choices, and do they lead to multiple endings?

In Casebook 1899, each case typically unfolds like this: you investigate a crime scene or suspect’s location for clues, perform tasks to gain access to new conversations, and then question characters to uncover more information. All clues are recorded in your notebook. Eventually, you’ll piece together these clues on a “mind palace”-style case board. For each node, you must choose between two possible interpretations based on your intuition and reasoning. These choices lead to different outcomes, some players may even conclude that no crime occurred at all. But in every case, the player must own their conclusions.

Why did you choose a retro pixel-art style for Casebook 1899?

There are two main reasons. First, I love the classic LucasArts adventures of the 1990s – I grew up with Fate of Atlantis, Monkey Island, and others. The visual style also draws inspiration from Sherlock Holmes: The Case of the Serrated Scalpel. Second, I believe this aesthetic resonates with players in my age group who appreciate grounded, thoughtful adventures. Pixel art also appeals to fans of “cozy games,” and while Casebook 1899 isn’t strictly cozy, it’s definitely cozy-adjacent.

As a solo developer, what were the biggest challenges you faced during development?

Honestly, the biggest challenge was finding time. Despite the Kickstarter funding, this remains a hobby project, and balancing it with a full-time job is tough. I also faced personal setbacks, including job loss and family mournings, which caused delays. What kept me going was the supportive community of fans and fellow developers who encourage and inspire each other.

Working solo can be isolating. How did you stay motivated through the “countless late nights” of development?

I often say that Kickstarter is both a blessing and a curse. Without the nearly 500 backers eagerly awaiting the game, I might have abandoned the project, not because I didn’t believe in it, but because it’s so demanding. Knowing that so many people believe in me helps me push through even when I’m struggling. I also recommend regularly exhibiting your game, seeing people enjoy it at events and fairs is incredibly energizing and keeps me motivated for weeks afterward.

Your 2022 Kickstarter campaign was successful. Were you surprised by its reception, and how did the funding impact development?

The game wouldn’t exist without crowdfunding. I always envisioned it as fully voiced, and I needed funds for music, sound effects, and other assets. I initially planned the campaign for February 2022 but realized I needed to build an audience first, so I delayed it until July. I spent that time carefully planning the campaign, including livestreams and interviews. So while the success wasn’t entirely surprising, it was close, things only really took off when I added a physical boxed edition as a reward.

A free demo of the first case is available on Steam. How has player feedback been influencing the final version of the game?

The public demo has since been shortened, but many players tried it and provided valuable feedback. That feedback continues to shape the game, especially in terms of puzzle signposting, which can vary by language. Now that the game is fully voiced, the broader structure is largely set, but I’m still refining the experience based on what players share.

Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently in designing, crowdfunding, or managing Casebook 1899 as a solo developer?

I made the classic mistake that many first-time developers do: I massively overscoped. This project turned out to be far too ambitious for a solo debut. With 5 to 9 hours of playtime, depending on the player’s skill and style, it became much longer than I initially anticipated. That said, I didn’t include any filler. There are no repeated puzzles or mini-games; every challenge in the game serves a specific narrative or gameplay purpose. So in a way, the game had to become what it is. I just wish it had been my third or fourth project instead of my first.

But if I had done things differently, I wouldn’t have learned nearly as much. So in the end, no, I wouldn’t change a thing.

The post Gregor Müller on Casebook 1899: The Leipzig Murders, a Point-and-Click Detective Game first appeared on IndieGames.

Detective Dotson pleasantly surprises with its unique blend of point-and-click puzzles and a 60-minute animated movie, all set within the rarely explored and beautifully realized Indian culture. Playing as Dotson, a Bollywood actor turned detective in the Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata-inspired Dotcity, you delve into the mystery of his father’s death. The game’s vibrant 2D art in dynamic 3D settings also create a rich cultural tapestry and a loving tribute to Indian folklore. Despite its short playtime and some repetitive elements, Detective Dotson offers an engaging and likely satisfying adventure.

Beyond its core detective work, Detective Dotson features light platforming, allowing you to jump across buildings and areas, with a parachute for safe landings. The narrative unfolds through four interconnected main cases, driven by exploration, clue-gathering, and engaging evidence board puzzles. While mini-games and a clever disguise system offer welcome variety, the fundamental gameplay loop and navigating the environment proves perhaps too effortless.

Exploration is decent, but gameplay gets repetitive

Building on Detective Dotson’s exploration focus, the side-scrolling world features a continuous, interconnected map of Dotcity’s bustling streets, temples, and apartments. You engage with colorful NPCs such as shopkeepers, gangsters, and aunties through dialogue trees, trading items or information to advance the four main cases, with icons above NPCs’ heads indicating needed objects. While the nonlinear exploration lets you roam Dotcity freely, the small map (about 10 screens) and lack of a fast-travel system make backtracking feel tedious.

The four main cases center on evidence boards where you connect clues, like notes and pictures linking suspects, to solve mysteries. Masala Games describes this as solving “sentences with missing nouns,” which feels satisfying when clues align but frustrating when the game doesn’t clearly indicate if you’ve gathered enough evidence. Just as the later cases begin to deliver on the promise of greater complexity and a deeper exploration of Dotson’s father’s death, the game unexpectedly cuts off after the third case, resulting in a cliffhanger that feels like an unfulfilled narrative thread.

Following the clue-driven cases in Detective Dotson, the Bollywood-inspired disguise system adds a playful twist, letting Dotson wear costumes like Sadhu robes to “read minds” or Karishma’s attire to blend into kitty parties, unlocking new dialogue or areas. Lively NPC conversations, filled with humorous chats about AI startups or bribery rates, bring Dotcity to life, but their lack of depth limits any proper character development. Additionally, a unique mechanic lets you throw objects like trash or rocks to distract dogs, throw them at other humans to make them angry, disable cameras, or earn coins by littering responsibly.

“The four main cases center on evidence boards where you connect clues.”

Enjoyable mini games

The inclusion of mini-games in Detective Dotson adds welcome breaks and opportunities to earn currency for items or trades, with addictive hidden object puzzles offering simple, replayable timed challenges. Culturally rich additions like engaging street cricket (though potentially difficult for non-fans), Bollywood dance-offs (styled after Guitar Hero with a desi flair), and wedding baraat challenges are particularly noteworthy, sometimes even linking directly to the narrative by unlocking clues. However, this initial charm, much like the core gameplay loop and dialogue, eventually succumbs to repetition.

Before diving into Detective Dotson’s cases and mini-games, you’re encouraged to watch Detective Dotson: The Movie, a 60-minute animated prequel (free on YouTube and bundled with the game) that explores Dotson’s backstory, his father’s murder, and the shady Tupka Corporation. Created in Unreal Engine 5, the film combines 2D characters with photorealistic 3D environments, delivering a darker, more serious tone than the game’s comedic vibe and shallow NPC dialogue.

It introduces key characters like Journalist Jotson and traces Dotson’s reluctant journey to becoming a detective. However, the film’s absence from the game client, slow start, and rushed second half can feel uneven, much like the game’s abrupt narrative ending. Skipping it may leave you confused, as the game assumes familiarity, but you can still jump into the gameplay without too much trouble.

“Where’s my Biryani?”

Detective Dotson is worth trying if you’re a fan of cozy detective games

Detective Dotson vividly brings its “mishmash of different cities” to life with landmarks reminiscent of India’s wonders, such as Taj Mahal-esque temples, and authentic everyday details like movie posters and bustling street vendors. However, this immersive atmosphere is undermined by immersion-breaking bugs, including disappearing NPCs, vehicles clipping through Dotson, and UI glitches, compounded by clunky platforming animations.

In conclusion, Detective Dotson marks a promising and heartfelt indie debut from Masala Games, successfully capturing the chaotic charm of modern India through its cozy mystery gameplay and visually striking 2D-3D art style. Its authentically realized Dotcity setting, engaging mini-games, and Bollywood-infused narrative, enriched by the animated prequel, position it as a noteworthy addition to the adventure genre, particularly appealing to fans of titles like Venba. However, the abrupt cliffhanger, repetitive mechanics, and technical glitches ultimately prevent it from reaching its full potential. Despite these drawbacks, its budget-friendly price point makes Detective Dotson a worthwhile consideration for enthusiasts of cozy mysteries seeking a unique cultural experience.

“Great pick for cozy fans.”

Review copy provided by the publisher

3.5

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I AM RIPPER puts you in the shoes of a detective hunting a serial killer, confirmed by forensic evidence, in a gripping investigation. Your choices shape the branching story across multiple timelines, forcing you to tackle tough moral dilemmas that decide others’ fates while chasing the killer and uncovering secrets. Told through varied perspectives, the game builds on White Paper Games’ knack for award-winning storytelling and immersive world-building.

Gameplay focuses on hands-on interactivity, like the stitch-cutting sequence shown in the trailer. You’ll collect forensic evidence, navigate tough moral choices, and make decisions with lasting impact. Blending puzzle, horror, and detective elements, this fast-paced thriller feels rewarding and grounded, diving into themes of power and moral judgment in a decaying industrial world.

The post I AM RIPPER Unveils a Dark British Crime Thriller Set in the 1980s first appeared on IndieGames.

Picture this: you’re in Bukovie, a fictional city in an alternate 1920s Europe, where war looms, labor strikes simmer, and prohibition has driven everyone to secret bars like yours. You’re not just pouring drinks, you’re a detective, roped into solving five murder cases by a pushy cop who could shut your bar down. The vibe is pure noir, with jazzy tunes and hand-drawn art that feels like stepping into a smoky, sepia-toned film. What got me was the cast of 22 characters, from crooked cops to heartbroken singers, each with secrets to spill if you play your cards right.

You serve cocktails to loosen tongues, using a simple minigame where you trace a symbol to mix drinks. It’s fun at first, but I’ll be honest, it gets repetitive fast. The real meat is in the dialogue. You’ve got to read your customers’ moods: drunk, angry, or flirty and decide whether to charm, threaten, or serve them a bad drink to get them talking.

Each of the five cases, taking about an hour or so each, flows into the next, and characters you meet early on evolve in surprising ways. I was moved by a regular who went from a one-note drunk to someone grappling with loss, and I felt invested in helping them find hope. But the game’s not without hiccups. The dialogue can also feel static at times, with characters forgetting key moments, which dulled some choices.

Should you give it a try? If you love visual novels, murder mysteries, or just want a game that feels like a good book with a jazz soundtrack, I say yes. It’s not the deepest detective sim, and the drink-mixing could use more spice, but the characters and atmosphere make it worth pouring a few hours into. The game’s 17.99€ price tag on Steam feels fair for its 5-7 hour runtime, and with console versions planned for PS4, PS5, Xbox, and Switch, more folks will get to try it soon.

The post Should You Give Best Served Cold a Try? first appeared on IndieGames.

In Duck Detective: The Ghost of Glamping, you follow duck detective Eugene McQuacklin as he investigates mysterious events at a luxury campsite, facing rumors of ghosts. However, his real struggles lie in his failed marriage and bread addiction, which haunt him as he seeks the truth. This time, he reluctantly teams up with a new partner, alligator Freddy, to interrogate suspects, examine evidence, and make key “deductions” to solve the case.

The gameplay centers on gathering clues through conversations with fully voice-acted, quirky animal characters. You fill in phrases in Eugene’s notebook and unravel the mystery in a style reminiscent of Return of the Obra Dinn or The Case of the Golden Idol, with a light, humorous twist. Additionally, 2.5D isometric visuals and witty dialogue create an enchanting noir-inspired world.

The post Duck Detective: The Ghost of Glamping Quacks Onto Consoles and PC this May first appeared on IndieGames.

The world of Agent of Veil is filled with secrets, puzzles, puns, and a suspicious number of hidden compartments. Puzzle your way into the covert world of espionage as a potential recruit for the elusive VEIL agency, where you must pass an unconventional spy interview, solve puzzles, answer quirky questions and uncover hidden agency secrets. Gather clues, decode mysterious messages and navigate a world where every solved puzzle brings you closer to the truth.

While your new office is the place where you’ll begin to uncover the agency’s secrets, it is also a place full of intriguing mysteries of its own. Encrypted documents, secret rooms, and coded messages are just the tip of the iceberg. You’ll also learn about fellow agents and get a taste of the drama that comes with the high-pressure world of espionage.

The post Indie Studio Hellion Red Announced Their Debut Game Agent of Veil first appeared on IndieGames.

The story takes place on Halloween night, 1897, when a group of mystics from around the world gathers in western Ireland to open a gateway between worlds and communicate with the dead. However, 48 hours before the séance, Evelyn Deane mysteriously vanishes. Detective Declan Ward is called in to find her and uncover the culprit before someone else disappears.

As Detective Declan Ward, you will interview and interrogate a cast of eccentric suspects, uncovering their motives and hidden secrets. Every piece of information is recorded in Declan’s journal, while collected evidence is used to reveal the truth behind Blake Manor and the séance that has brought these unusual guests together. Exploring the manor, solving puzzles, and gaining access to restricted areas are all essential for progressing in the investigation. However, every action and every lost minute brings the séance closer, meaning you must be in the right place at the right time to witness critical events that could change the course of your case.

The Séance of Blake Manor is being developed by the creators of The Darkside Detective and features a stunning comic-book-inspired art style. Drawing inspiration from Irish mythology and the spiritualist movements of the Victorian era, the game blends supernatural elements with classic detective storytelling, making it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven mysteries.

The post Detective Mystery The Séance of Blake Manor Reveals a New Trailer at The MIX Showcase first appeared on IndieGames.

The Darkest Files is set in 1950s post-war Germany, where you take on the role of Esther Katz, a young and ambitious prosecutor. Investigating unsolved crimes from the Nazi era, based on real historical events, you will interrogate witnesses, search for clues, and attempt to prove your case in court. Esther joins the team of Fritz Bauer, a real-life attorney general in Frankfurt who pursued similar cases in history.

Jörg Friedrich from Paintbucket Games emphasized that the goal of The Darkest Files is not just to create an exciting game but also to tell the story of Fritz Bauer and his team of courageous prosecutors who fought for justice despite many obstacles:“This story has become frighteningly relevant today, as the rule of law and democratic institutions are under unprecedented pressure. We hope to inspire players to take action themselves.”

The game offers in-depth investigations of historical cases, allowing players to interview relatives, witnesses, and suspects. Through Esther’s internal perspective, players can immerse themselves in witness testimonies, interactively experiencing events from the point of view of the person giving the statement. Once enough evidence is gathered, you must reconstruct your crime theory on a crime scene blueprint and present it in court.

The Darkest Files features stunning 3D visuals with a cell-shaded effect, making it resemble a 1950s pulp comic come to life. Additionally, full English voice acting further enhances the immersive atmosphere.

The post The Darkest Files Gets an Official Release Date, Coming to Steam at the End of This Month first appeared on IndieGames.