A Fatal Theory

By Steve Hatherley

A Fatal Theory is a murder mystery game with a science theme set at the QuantumTech Innovations Annual Celebration. It is for 8-12 guests (plus one host) and is published by Freeform Games.

(Note that if you click on the link below and then buy A Fatal Theory, I will earn a small commission.)

Cover for A Fatal Theory

Purchase A Fatal Theory from Freeform Games - a science murder mystery game for 8-12 guests.

At a Glance: A Fatal Theory

  • Theme: Modern science and technology
  • Guests: 8-12
  • Hosts: One
  • Duration: 3-4 hours, including introduction and winding down
  • Age suitability: 15+
  • Complexity: Straightforward

The story

QuantumTech Innovations’ brightest researchers gather at its secluded headquarters to celebrate a decade of groundbreaking technological achievements.

While a fierce storm rages outside, staff anticipate exciting announcements and career-changing opportunities.

However, the evening takes a dark turn when Dr. Cox, lead researcher on the revolutionary Interstellar Matter Manipulation project, is discovered dead in the cold lab…

how A fatal Theory works

A Fatal Theory is an interactive murder mystery game, which means all the players receive complete details of their character, including a detailed backstory, objectives that they must try to achieve, and information about other characters.

Characters also have item cards and abilities (that let them detect secrets find out information about other people).

In my opinion, once you've played an interactive murder mystery game, you won't want to go back.

the casT

The cast of A Fatal Theory includes:

  • Charlie Inglewood: Chief Executive Officer and founder of QuantumTech Innovations.
  • Kit Richter: Chief Financial Officer of QuantumTech Innovations.
  • Dr. Heptin: Lead researcher for the Interstellar Matter Manipulation project, working with the late Dr. Cox.
  • Dr. Davis: Lead Research Quantum Biologist working on the BioQuanta project with Dr. Auxin.
  • Dr. Auxin: Assistant Research Biologist on the BioQuanta project, working with Dr. Davis.
  • Dr. Stevens: Lead Research Quantum Neuroscientist working on the NeuroRecall project with Dr. Field.
  • Dr. Field: Assistant Neuroscientist on the NeuroRecall project, working with Dr. Stevens.
  • Nile Stein: QuantumTech Lab Receptionist.
  • Rowan Watts: Personal Assistant to the CEO.
  • Ash McLace: Building Security Officer.
  • Jamie Goodall: General Research Graduate.
  • Alex Buffet: major private investor.

Gender split: All characters are ungendered.

the details

Instead of a formal dinner party, A Fatal Theory is better suited to a buffet meal or finger food.

Everyone needs to be able to talk quietly with each other - to plot and scheme and achieve their goals.

A Fatal Theory also needs a dedicated host to organise the game. They will read the entire game and will be available to answer questions.

I really enjoy being the host - you know what's going on and can watch your friends scheme and plot and be devious to one another.

how to get A Fatal THeory

Cover for A Fatal Theory

Purchase A Fatal Theory from Freeform Games - a science murder mystery game for 8-12 guests.

You will be taken to the Freeform Games LLP website - follow the instructions to purchase A Fatal Theory.

Just download the game, print it out and have a great murder mystery!

Disclosure: I am a partner at Freeform Games - feel free to ask me lots of questions! (I will also earn commission if you buy A Fatal Theory.)

Does A Fatal THeory come with a money-back guarantee?

Yes!

Freeform Games offer a cast-iron guarantee on all their murder mystery games. If you're not completely satisfied with A Fatal Theory then let them know within 30 days and they will refund you.

What age is A Fatal Theory suitable for?

Freeform Games suggest A Fatal Theory is suitable for those aged 15+, as it contains adult themes and references to adultery, drugs and drug taking.

How long does A Fatal Theory take to play?

I would allow 3-4 hours to play A Fatal Theory. While the game itself takes 2-2.5 hours to play, I recommend allowing time to introduce the game and wind down after.

Where's my download?

Shortly after buying A Fatal Theory you should receive an email from Freeform Games explaining how to download the game files.

If you haven't received this, please first check your spam filter - sometimes the emails end up there.

If that fails, please get in touch directly with Freeform Games - with the details of which game you bought, when you bought it, and which email address you used. Or contact me (with that same information) and I'll get in touch for you.

How many guests will I need?

You need at least 8 guests and no more than 12.

If you have more than 12 guests you will need to create your own, or use one of the free extra characters provided by Freeform Games when you download A Fatal Theory.

Can I host A Fatal Theory and also play a character?

The host has an important role in A Fatal Theory. The organize and coordinate the party. They also act as an impartial "referee" - so it's important that they have read the game and understand what is going on.

So I recommend not playing a character and hosting the game.

Purchase A Fatal Theory from Freeform Games - a science murder mystery game for 8-12 guests.

Steve Hatherley

I’m Steve Hatherley, an experienced designer of interactive murder mystery games, creating and hosting them since the 1990s. I co-founded Freeform Games and Great Murder Mystery Games to bring this distinctive, character-driven style of game to a wider audience. My work—including Death on the Gambia, Hollywood Lies, and
—has been enjoyed by thousands of players worldwide. I’ve also written a book sharing my approach to creating immersive, freeform mystery experiences.

New game

Cover for A Fatal Theory

A Fatal Theory - a modern science murder mystery for 8-12 players

Don't know where to start?

Here's my suggested quick route through the site:

Step 1 - Go to Choosing a Game to choose the game that suits your party best.

Step 2 - Review the Tips for Hosts for helpful advice.

Step 3 - If you want to keep up to date with the latest murder mystery game news, subscribe to my newsletter.

Step 4 - Once you've had your party - tell me how it went! Click here to tell me your murder mystery party story.

Got a question? Click here to go to the FAQ.

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