Question on which game to choose

by Léopold
(Brussels, Belgium)

I'm looking to buy one of the games to play with my colleagues as part of a team-building activity. I've already organised the "Arabian Nights" game twice: once for my parents and their friends for their anniversary, and a second time with my own friends.

It was super fun, but also too much involvement for the moderator during the game, in my opinion. There were duels to manage, items to steal, etc. on top of answering the questions of the participants (many of whom for which it was the first murder party so they needed guidance).

In the first game we were two moderators that knew the story, so it was manageable, but in the second game (with my friends), I was alone and it was too much to handle to be honest.

In this case with my colleagues, I will be alone, hence the question: which game (for 26 people) requires the least amount of intervention from the moderator (leaving enough time to guide the poor lost souls)?

In terms of duration, we're flexible, anything from 2 to 5 hours is fine.

Many thanks for your guidance!

PS: you rock, these games are amazing ;)

My response:

Thank you for your kind words - yes, I think the games are amazing as well! (But no surprise there...)

Your points about Arabian Nights are valid - it's hard to run with just one host. I'd be happy running it on my own, but I'm experienced. (But even then a co-host would be easier.)

But to your question.

I assume you've checked out this page: Murder mystery party games for 26 to 40 guests.

Of them, I would say any of the three games that I list as bestsellers (The Auction, Hollywood Lies or Casino Fatale) are good for lone hosts. And if I had to choose one, it would be Hollywood Lies as it doesn't include combat or fighting. (But I'm the author of that, so do take that recommendation with a pinch of salt!)

I hope that helps!