Unlocking Investigative RPGs and Mystery Solving, Part 1: The Mechanics and Structure of Investigation

Within the big ol’ tent of roleplaying, there is a subgenre that caters to those who enjoy unraveling mysteries, solving puzzles, and playing the role of a detective. Investigative RPGs offer a potentially very captivating experience, where players must use their wits, deduction skills, and keen observation to uncover hidden truths and solve complex cases. In this seven-part series, I’m going to have a wee look at investigative RPGs.

In this first part, I’ll be exploring the mechanics, storytelling elements, and tips for creating an immersive mystery-solving experience. Here’s the plan for the series as a whole:

1. The Mechanics and Structure of Investigation (you are here)
2. Compelling Mysteries
3. Player Agency
4. Tools for Investigation
5. Collaborative Problem-Solving
6. Red Herrings and Plot Twists
7. Game Recommendations

Let’s jump in, eh?

Investigative RPGs feature mechanical and structural elements that are specifically designed to support mystery-solving gameplay, or have general systems that can be easily turned towards investigative play. These elements provide players with the tools and systems necessary to gather clues, conduct interviews, analyse evidence, and piece together information. Mastering these mechanics is crucial for players to effectively solve mysteries within the game world.

Central to any investigation is the gathering of clues. The GM must Implement mechanics – or at least RP opportunities – that allow players to discover and gather clues. This could involve searching crime scenes, examining objects, or interacting with NPCs to extract information. Mechanics such as skill checks, perception rolls, or investigation-focused abilities can determine the success or failure of obtaining crucial clues. The challenge lies in making the process engaging and rewarding while ensuring that the clues are appropriately balanced to maintain the challenge level.

A major source of clues and information is conversation in the form of interviews and interrogations. Players need the ability and opportunities to simulate interviews and interrogations with suspects, witnesses, or informants. Mechanically, this could involve dialogue trees, social skill checks, or systems that track the flow of conversation and the information obtained. Players may need to use their persuasion, intimidation, or observation skills to extract valuable information or uncover inconsistencies. The mechanics should reflect the importance of effective questioning and provide meaningful choices that impact the investigation.

Once information has been gathered, players need to be able to analyse evidence, whether it’s forensic analysis, magical examinations, or decoding cryptic messages. This could involve mini-games, skill checks, or specialized abilities that allow players to interpret clues, identify patterns, or make deductions. This should require players to think critically, consider multiple angles, and connect the dots to draw conclusions from the evidence at hand.

Players also need systems for managing the information they gather throughout the investigation. This could involve tools such as investigation boards, mind maps, or digital databases that allow players to organize and cross-reference their findings. The mechanics should facilitate the process of connecting relevant information, tracking leads, and identifying relationships between clues, supporting players in their decision-making and deduction process. To bring this back to my own experience, I’ve twice (once in Vampire: the Masquerade and once in the Dresden Files RPG) had players maintain a physical investigation board and it worked out great both times. It’s a really fantastic and immersive way to approach the game.

GMs should Include puzzles or riddles that players must solve as part of the investigation. These puzzles can range from physical puzzles to logic-based challenges or cryptographic codes that need deciphering. The mechanics should provide players with the necessary tools, hints, or clues to solve the puzzles, promoting engagement and a sense of accomplishment when they successfully unravel these intricate enigmas. One thing to consider here is the balance between the player’s ability to piece something together and the character’s ability to do this. Should a smart character be punished for having a player who can’t get their head around a particular mystery? Should a low-intelligence character be able to work out complex problems based on player knowledge and ability? That’s a tricky question.

A key element in all of this is time pressure. Given infinite time, players can work through every option and there’s no tension or sense of urgency. Consider incorporating mechanics that simulate the passage of time and the impact of player actions on the investigation. Time-based mechanics add urgency and tension to the gameplay, forcing players to prioritize leads, manage resources, and make choices within a limited timeframe. This adds an extra layer of challenge and realism, as players must balance efficiency with thoroughness in their investigation. Usually, I’m incorporate these into specific sections of the game, rather than the game as a whole.

Finally, in terms of campaign structure, GMs must tie progression and character development to investigative skills. As players solve mysteries and gather experience, they should have the opportunity to improve their investigative abilities, unlock new tools or techniques, and become more adept at solving complex cases. These mechanics can provide a sense of growth and achievement, motivating players to continue unraveling mysteries and taking on increasingly challenging investigations. Certainly, an investigative game is not the place for a character to raise their intelligence by going out to the forest to kill boars for experience points!

By considering and incorporating these mechanics and structural elements into your gameplay, we can star to really get to grips with a structured and engaging investigative RPG experience. The ideal games sees the mechanical elements supporting the storytelling, providing players with the necessary tools, challenges, and progression systems to immerse themselves in the role of investigators. It is essential to strike a balance between providing guidance and allowing players the freedom to explore, make meaningful choices, and ultimately shape the outcome of the investigation.

Next time, we’re going to look more at the storytelling aspect and consider how to ensure that our mysteries are compelling.