Unlocking Investigative RPGs and Mystery Solving, Part 3: Player Agency

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.

Today, in part 3 of our series, I’ll be writing all about player agency. We’ll look at why it matters and how to foster it. Here’s the plan for the series as a whole:

The Mechanics and Structure of Investigation
Compelling Mysteries
Player Agency (you are here)
Tools for Investigation
Collaborative Problem-Solving
Red Herrings and Plot Twists
Game Recommendations

Let’s go!

Investigative RPGs thrive on player agency. This gameplay element empowers players to actively engage in the mystery-solving process and shape the outcome of an investigation. When players feel that their choices and actions have a meaningful impact on the story, they become more invested and immersed in the game world. This makes the game more enjoyable for players, and more rewarding for the GM running the game.

There are a number of key aspects to consider when encouraging player agency in your investigative RPG. The first and most fundamental of these is that of providing meaningful choices to players throughout the course of the investigation. These choices should have consequences that directly impact the progression of the story, the discovery of clues, and the relationships with NPCs. Allow players to decide which leads to pursue, how to approach interrogations, or whether to take risks. Each choice should have weight and influence the outcome of the mystery.

In laying the groundwork for allowing such an approach, GMs should foster a sense of exploration by creating an open-ended game world. Give players the freedom to explore different locations, interact with a range of NPCs, and uncover optional clues or side stories, which may be relevant, red herrings, or just otherwise interesting or rewarding. By allowing players to chart their own investigative path, you encourage them to think critically, consider multiple perspectives, and discover hidden secrets.

Flexibility in the narrative is crucial in this. While you may have a general outline and key plot points, be prepared to adapt the story based on the players’ choices and actions. Incorporate player-driven elements, such as their character backstories or personal goals, into the overarching mystery. This flexibility ensures that players feel their decisions matter and have a genuine impact on the outcome. This is why approaches like the character worksheets in the Dresden Files RPG are particularly useful. The information gathered in such an exercise is useful not only in motivating the players but also in giving the GM plenty of material for tailoring the world and story to the players. More generally, FATE’s aspects system fulfills this purpose to a slightly less-developed extent.

Of course, with agency comes decisions; and with decisions, consequences. Embrace consequences and repercussions that arise from player choices. Whether it’s gaining the trust of an NPC, uncovering a crucial clue, or facing a dangerous adversary, the outcomes of players’ actions should have a tangible impact on the investigation. This fosters a sense of responsibility and investment in decision-making, as players become aware of the potential risks and rewards.

Finally, you need to foster not only the individual agency of each player, but also encourage collaboration and communication between all players. Allow them to share information, brainstorm ideas, and work together to solve the mystery. Provide opportunities for players to combine their unique skills, perspectives, and knowledge to uncover hidden truths. Collaborative problem-solving not only enhances agency but also promotes engagement and camaraderie among the players.

Now, having said all of that, let me come in with caveats. While player agency is important, it’s equally crucial to strike a balance between guiding the narrative and providing meaningful choices. It’s entirely possible that, left to their own devices, story threads and direction can be lost. It’s therefore important to provide clear objectives and guidance to prevent players from feeling lost or overwhelmed. Set initial goals, introduce important NPCs or clues, and establish a framework for the investigation. Repetition helps with this, too. This ensures that players have a sense of direction while still maintaining the freedom to explore and make choices.

The creation of NPCs that react to players’ choices and actions is also crucial to maintaining a structure. NPCs should adapt and respond based on the information they receive or the players’ reputation. This makes the game world feel alive and dynamic, giving players a sense of agency and impact on the story. This also links back to previous points about consequences as players base their judgements of players on observed behaviours.

Maintaining a good pacing and progression in any game can be challenging. The GM must guide players through logical progressions, ensuring that they have access to necessary information or resources at the appropriate times. Systems like Gumshoe, as used in Trail of Cthulhu, Bubblegumshoe, The Esoterroriss, and Mutant City Blues offer specific mechanical systems to support this. Avoid stagnation or information overload by balancing the release of clues, encounters, and plot developments.

Throughout your game, you must clearly communicate the consequences of player choices. You will help players understand the potential outcomes of their decisions, both immediate and long-term. This transparency allows them to make informed choices while maintaining that all-important agency. You can guide, but not instruct.

Finally, and this is something that all good GMs should do, listen to your players. Encourage player feedback and collaboration throughout the game. Regularly check in with the players to gauge their satisfaction, understand their expectations, and gather their input on the direction of the investigation. This feedback loop helps maintain a healthy balance between guiding the narrative and incorporating player agency. Additionally, foster a collaborative environment where players can discuss their theories, share ideas, and contribute to the overall investigation. Sometimes giving players a few minutes for discussion without the GM in the room can help with this. It may be a good time for a bathroom break, or to grab a coffee. This inclusivity empowers players and ensures that their voices are heard, further enhancing their agency and investment in the game.

To end this post, I should repeat that encouraging player agency in investigative RPGs is essential for creating an awesome detective story for your players. You just have to give them freedom. Meaningful choices are so important, and open-ended exploration with a flexible narrative will set you up for success. I’m not oging to pretend it’s easy. I’ve pointed out some of the challenges in setting a good balance between agency and guided play. Nobody wants to be railroaded through the GM’s strictly pre-ordained story. By finding some sort of equilibrium, you can create a dynamic and player-driven experience that keeps everyone engaged and invested in the whole business of solving your mysteries.

Catch you next time when we look to expand on our investigative toolbox!