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rating
Ludopedia
6.6
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
If you love a classic whodunit with a retro tech twist, Electronic Detective serves up strategic questioning and tension.
Highlights
- Unique paper‑and‑electronic blend
- 130k+ different cases
- Three difficulty levels
Keep in mind
- Fast player elimination
- Requires AA batteries
- Steep learning curve for newbies
Rules manual not indexed yet
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Electronic Detective is a 1979 classic that blends old‑school deduction with the logic of a micro‑computer. For 1‑4 private eyes, each game throws you into one of over 130,000 computer‑generated murder cases. You get a roster of 19 colorful suspects, each with a card listing possible questions. The trick is to pick the right question, feed it to the electronic detective, and watch the answer flash on LED lights. Jot everything on your case sheet, compare alibis and clues, and try to pinpoint the killer. A correct accusation triggers sirens; a wrong one shoots you out of the game. The device offers three difficulty levels—Gumshoe, Sleuth, Master Detective—and powers off automatically when play ends. Powered by six AA batteries, it’s portable, while gunshots, police sirens and a funeral dirge set a noir mood. Light on weight (2/5), it’s perfect for fans of quick mysteries, strategic questioning, and a retro‑electronic vibe.
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Best player count
BGG community vote
1
BEST
2
OK
3
OK
4
OK
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Arxon, Ideal
Designer
Julius Cooper, Phil Orbanes Sr.
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
293owners
43wishlist
13want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
How many players can join?
1 to 4 players; it works as a solo game or with a group.
What is the playing time?
About 45 minutes, varying with the chosen difficulty level.
How complex is the game?
Lightweight (weight 2/5); rules are simple but require logical thinking.
What components are included?
Suspect cards, case sheets, an electronic device with LEDs and sounds, and 6 AA batteries.
Who is the game best suited for?
Fans of mystery, deduction games, and anyone who enjoys a retro 70s‑80s vibe.
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