The Layers of Lies
A detective puzzle game where you solve the crime from both sides.
Problem
Detective games usually put the player in the investigator’s shoes. You collect clues, but you never feel why the crime happened. I wanted players to understand the story, not just name a culprit.
Idea
Switch perspectives. Scenes alternate between the victim and the culprit. Each side holds clues the other one cannot see, and the truth appears only when they are put together.
Solution
Two roles: you play the victim and the culprit in alternating scenes.
Clues in every scene: explore and interact to find clues.
Paired clues: clues make sense only when you combine one from each side.
Evidence board: connect clues and test your theory before the final reveal.
Victim’s scenes
Problem: players usually meet a crime after it happened, so early details feel meaningless.
Idea: let players live the events before the crime, so harmless moments turn into clues later.
Solution: fill scenes with clues. You explore / talk / interact and spot clues hidden in everyday details.
Culprit’s scenes
Problem: the culprit is usually a mystery until the final reveal, so the motive stays flat.
Idea: show the motive from the inside. Planning and cover-up scenes let players understand every choice.
Solution: fill scenes with clues. Some details contradict the victim’s view.
Clue system
Problem: clues from two perspectives are easy to lose or mix up.
Idea: evidence board where clues from both sides connect.
Solution: clue types, clues that work only in pairs, and how players link them.
