Chronicles of Crime

Lucky Duck Games, 999 Games, Arclight Games · Board game · 2018
1–4 · best 2 Solo 60–90 min Weight 2.1/5
rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're looking for a cooperative detective experience that truly innovates, Chronicles of Crime offers a compelling blend of physical and digital investigation. Its unique Scan&Play technology makes every case feel fresh and immersive.

Highlights
  • Innovative app integration for dynamic cases
  • Engaging cooperative crime-solving experience
  • High replayability with diverse scenarios
  • Intuitive QR code Scan&Play mechanic
Keep in mind
  • Requires a smartphone or tablet
  • Reliance on app for all story elements
  • Can feel like a digital experience
RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our complete step-by-step rules guide.
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About the game
Get ready to step into a detective's shoes with Chronicles of Crime, a cooperative investigation game that brilliantly blends board game mechanics with app technology and a dash of virtual reality. The concept is both simple and ingenious: using a fixed set of physical components – a board, locations, characters, and items – you and your friends can dive into a multitude of different crime scenarios. Just launch the app, select the story that piques your interest, and follow the clues to unravel the mystery, with the ultimate goal of apprehending the killer in the shortest possible time. The game's major innovation is its Scan&Play technology. Every game element, be it a suspicious location, an enigmatic character, or a crucial item, features a unique QR code. By scanning these codes with the app, new clues and plot twists are activated, dynamically adapting to the scenario you're playing. This means the fun never ends; new stories can be added to the game simply through app updates, eliminating the need to purchase additional physical components. And for those seeking even deeper immersion, the virtual reality experience is a standout feature. With a mobile phone and optional VR glasses, you can literally step into crime scenes, exploring virtual environments in search of evidence. The game includes one tutorial and five cases to kickstart your detective career, but the app offers many more for download. Each session typically lasts about 60 to 90 minutes, and some scenarios are interconnected, forming a larger, more complex narrative. It's your chance to prove you have a knack for justice!
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — Chronicles of Crime English · PDF
Download PDF
BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 REC
2 BEST
3 REC
4 OK
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Game details

Families

Components: Digital Hybrid – App/Website Required Components: Official Music Soundtrack Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Crowdfunding: Spieleschmiede Game: Chronicles of Crime Mechanism: Campaign Games
Publisher Lucky Duck Games, 999 Games, Arclight Games, Broadway Toys LTD, Corax Games, FoxGames
Designer David Cicurel
Artist David Cicurel, Katarzyna Kosobucka, Mateusz Komada, Matijos Gebreselassie
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can participate in Chronicles of Crime?
The game is designed for 1 to 4 players, making it great for both a solo investigation session and solving mysteries with a group of friends.
What is the average duration of a game?
Each investigation session typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the scenario and your efficiency in finding clues!
Is Chronicles of Crime a complex game?
With a BGG weight of 2.06/5, it's considered light to medium complexity. The rules are easy to learn, but the mysteries can be quite challenging, requiring good deduction and attention to detail.
Do I need a phone or tablet to play?
Yes, the app is essential to play Chronicles of Crime. It manages the scenarios, clues, and interaction with the QR codes on the physical components.
Are VR glasses mandatory?
No, VR glasses are an optional component for those seeking extra immersion. You can fully play and enjoy the game without them.
Are many scenarios included in the base game?
The base game includes one tutorial and 5 full scenarios. But the good news is that many more can be downloaded directly through the app, expanding your collection of crimes to solve!
Who is Chronicles of Crime recommended for?
It's ideal for fans of deduction, mystery, and adventure games who appreciate the integration of technology into board games. If you enjoy solving puzzles and diving into stories, you'll love it!