What does crime-free mean here?
Our original cases concern harmless mix-ups, messages and arrangements. Their solutions do not depend on violence, theft, threats or wrongdoing. Historical literary references may name works from the wider mystery genre; their plots are not reproduced as our games.
Do I need specialist knowledge?
No. Beginner exercises supply their rules and evidence. References provide optional context, not hidden requirements. Intermediate entries ask you to compare interpretations more carefully, rather than recall obscure facts.
How do hints and solutions work?
Open a labelled disclosure when you want a hint or explanation. Hints are optional, and there is no score penalty. You can close a disclosure again, though of course an answer cannot be unseen.
Are the photographs part of the puzzles?
No. Photographs illustrate the setting. All required evidence is provided in text, and no puzzle relies on colour alone. Do not look for tiny background details or assume a photograph exactly matches a described arrangement.
Can a puzzle have more than one answer?
Yes. We distinguish intended explanations from conclusions logically forced by the evidence and acknowledge plausible alternatives. If your explanation fits every supplied fact, ask which further observation would separate it from ours.
Do I need an account or payment?
No. These static pages and browser-based exercises require no account or payment. There are no subscriptions, purchases or paid hints in the supplied site.
What works without JavaScript?
Articles, case links and native hint disclosures remain readable. Search, branching choices, the mobile menu and correspondence tools require JavaScript. A text explanation of the invitation story is supplied when scripts are disabled, and the footer includes a direct email link.
Is my progress saved?
No. Story choices, searches and correspondence drafts are not saved by the supplied site scripts or sent to a server. Refreshing may reset your route. Your browser may independently restore form values or retain downloads.
May I share a case with a group?
You may share links and discuss cases in a noncommercial reading or teaching group. You may also read an exercise aloud in that setting with attribution. Consult our terms before reproducing material or distributing copies.
How can I report an ambiguous clue?
Use the correspondence page to prepare a message including the page, the clue and an alternative explanation. The form prepares text; it does not send it. Please avoid including sensitive personal information.
Ready for a small, complete investigation?
Open the invitation case