Calling all true crime fans;

How to turn trending board game into ultimate true crime night

Malinah Jerscheid, Reporter

     True crime – it brings out the inner detective in all of us. We’ve all seen shows like Dateline, Criminal Minds, and Forensic Files, the rush we get as we rack our brains to play a game of who done it keeps us fixed and wanting more.

     Pressman Toy has released a board game that steps up the traditional murder mystery night. The game is entitled Unsolved Case Files and is presented to be a realistic cold case murder that has players assume the position of a detective. The game is complete with photos, newspaper articles, witness reports, interrogations, and maps; everything needed to solve the murder. The game provides a perfect opportunity to host a complete evening of suspense, critical thinking, and fun.

     But how exactly does one plan a cold case get together?  Here’s a guide to help you plan your perfect evening.

     The first step is the game itself – Unsolved Case Files is a $30 purchase that can be found online on Amazon and in-store at your local Target. Currently, there are four case files to choose from; Harmony Ashcroft, Jamie Banks, Max Cahill, and Jane Doe. Each case is unique and full of plot twists, begin by choosing a case and making your purchase.

     The second step in your perfect night is assembling your team of detectives. Solving the file requires leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork. The task at hand is not one you complete on your own, so ensure that your team is cooperative and focused.

     They say you can’t think on an empty stomach. The amount of thinking involved in the game calls for some pretty serious snacking. These can range from classy to casual depending on the aesthetic you’re going for. If you plan on having a classy evening, try taking a spin on charcuterie boards. If you plan on taking a more casual approach, you can never go wrong with throwing a bag of couple bags of popcorn in the microwave. 

     The final step is background entertainment for after the crime is complete. Following your success of solving the case, unwind and bask in the glory by turning on your favorite crime show. Don’t know any? Here are five shows you can watch to get your fix. 

     You can NEVER go wrong with Criminal Minds. The show is set around a team of FBI profilers, with each episode focused on the analysis of a new killer, and a new crime. 

     Next on the list, the infamous Ted Bundy case. Netflix released a documentary last year following the story of Bundy, his love life, and the string of murders he was responsible for. 

     Interrogation is a crime show on CBS that is based on a crime that stretched thirty years. Each episode includes an interrogation based on actual case files. The show makes the audience the detective, playing a long game of who done it.

     Tiger King is another series that has recently caused an uproar with its growing popularity. The show dives into the stories of top big cat collectors in the United States and the mysterious murder surrounding it. 

     Finally, Netflix’s Night Stalker documents the story of Richard Ramirez, featuring real people who encountered him, all boiling down to his capture.

     So, there you have it, everything you need to know about hosting the perfect true-crime night. Embrace your inner crime junkie and become the secret FBI agent you dreamed about when you were a kid.