Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective: The Thames Murders & Other Cases

Sleuth Publications, Space Cowboys, Angry Lion Games · Board game · 1981
1–8 · best 2 Solo 60–120 min Weight 2.7/5
8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.6 rating BGG
8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.6 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you've ever wanted to step into the shoes of a master detective and unravel complex mysteries in Victorian London, this game is for you! It's a pure deduction experience where your wits are your only tools.

Highlights
  • Immersive, narrative-driven mystery solving
  • Pure deduction, no luck involved
  • Rich, atmospheric Victorian London setting
  • Excellent solo or cooperative experience
Keep in mind
  • Can be challenging and frustrating
  • Requires significant reading and focus
  • Not for those seeking traditional board game mechanics
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our interactive rules guide and exclusive illustrated infographic.
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About the game
Ever dreamed of unraveling mysteries in the foggy streets of Victorian London, side-by-side with Sherlock Holmes himself? In 'Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective: The Thames Murders & Other Cases', that fantasy becomes a reality! Forget dice and luck; here, it's all about your deduction and reasoning skills. You and your friends (or you alone, if you prefer a solitary challenge) will become consulting detectives, diving into a series of intriguing cases that will challenge even the great master of logic. The game throws you straight into the action, presenting a complex mystery. From there, the city of London is your board: you'll scour newspapers for clues, interview suspects in mansions and alleys, and connect the dots to uncover the truth behind bizarre crimes. Why were lions murdered in Hyde Park? Who stole valuable paintings from the National Gallery? And what was the motive behind Oswald Mason's murder? These are just some of the enigmas awaiting your sharp mind. The game offers a complete immersion into the Victorian era, with every detail meticulously researched to ensure the authenticity of Holmes' universe. Prepare for a rich narrative experience where every decision you make can lead to the solution or a dead end. It's a true mental challenge that invites you to test your abilities against the greatest detective of all time. Are you ready for the game, Watson?
Rules manual
Rules manual — Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective: The Thames Murders & Other Cases English · PDF
Download PDF
BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 REC
2 BEST
3 REC
4 REC
5 OK
6 OK
7 OK
8 OK
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Game details

Families

Books: Mystery Novels Books: Sherlock Holmes Cities: London (England, UK) Components: Map (City Scale) Country: England Game: Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective
Publisher Sleuth Publications, Space Cowboys, Angry Lion Games, Asterion Press, Äventyrsspel, Ben Sanders Co.
Designer Gary Grady, Raymond Edwards, Suzanne Goldberg
Artist Arnaud Demaegd, Bernard Bittler, Neriac, Nils Gulliksson, Pascal Quidault, Stefan Thulin
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can participate, and what is the average game duration?
The game can be played by 1 to 8 people, but the experience shines brightest with 1 to 4 players. Each case typically takes 60 to 120 minutes to solve, depending on the complexity of the mystery and your detective team.
Is it a very complex game, or can beginners play it?
While the rules are simple to learn, the complexity comes from deduction and the amount of information to process. It's best suited for players who already have some board game experience or who enjoy intense puzzles and mysteries.
What are the main components of the game?
You'll find a detailed map of London, a directory of addresses and characters, period newspapers with clues, and, of course, the case booklets that will guide your investigation. There's no traditional board, dice, or miniatures.
Does the game have replayability? Can I play the same cases multiple times?
Since the cases are based on specific stories and deductions, the replayability for a single case is low. Once you solve a mystery, you know the solution. However, the game comes with multiple cases, ensuring many hours of fun before exhausting the content.
Who is this game most recommended for?
It's perfect for Sherlock Holmes fans, mystery enthusiasts, deduction game lovers, and groups who enjoy collaborating to solve problems. If you're looking for a deep narrative experience and don't mind reading a lot, you'll love it!
Is there luck involved in the game?
Absolutely none! 'Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective' is purely a game of mental skill. Your decisions and ability to connect the clues are the only factors that will determine success or failure in solving the cases.