under the big top

Under the Big Top is an interactive murder mystery party for 12-15 guests (plus one host) published by Freeform Games.

(Note that if you click on the link below and then buy Under the Big Top I will earn a small amount of commission.)

the story

Cover to Under the Big Top, a circus-theme murder mystery game

It's 1952 and Bo Bennett's Big Top Bonanza has reached Sarasota, Florida for their final show.

With a successful nine month tour behind them, the performers and staff of the Bonanza are making plans for a restful and rewarding off-season.

There's just time for one last party...

how under the big top works

Under the Big Top is an interactive murder mystery game - which means that everybody has a full character with detailed backstory, objectives to achieve during the game and information about other characters.

Characters have item cards and abilities (Item cards are used to represent all sorts of things - from jewels and paintings to a bloodied juggling pin... Abilities, on the other hand, allow the characters to detect secrets find out information about other people.)

Under the Big Top has a number of different plots to keep everyone busy. For example, there is the mystery of the stolen paintings, the missing jewels, INS problems, new circuses to form - and of course a murder to solve.

the cast

The cast of Under the Big Top includes:

Bo Bennett: Owner and ringmaster.

Marvin Mancuso: High wire performer and juggler.

Burt Butler: Lion tamer.

Dana West: Floppsy the Clown.

The Korchencko Brothers: Trapeze artists.

Stella Sue: Fire-eater.

Quinn Bones: The human pincushion.

Roxanne Bones: The Blind Seer.

Lt. Morgan Caine: Sarasota Police detective.

And more...

Under the Big Top needs a dedicated host, someone to organise the game. 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 under the big top

Under the Big Top

Click here to purchase Under the Big Top from Freeform Games.

You will be taken to the Freeform Games LLP website - just follow the instructions to purchase Under the Big Top.

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 Under the Big Top.)

Does Under the Big Top 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 Under the Big Top then let them know within 30 days and they will refund you.

What age is Under the Big Top suitable for?

I suggest Under the Big Top is suitable for those aged 15+ as it includes several characters who are romantically involved with, or interested in, each other.

How long does Under the Big Top take to play?

I would allow 3-4 hours to play Under the Big Top. While the game itself takes 2.5-3 hours to play, I recommend allowing time to introduce the game and wind down after.

Where's my download?

Shortly after buying Under the Big Top 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 12 guests and no more than 15.

If you have fewer than 12 guests you will have to drop a character (which may affect the plot), or play a character yourself (not ideal, but I talk about it here), or even ask a guest to play two characters at once.

If you have more than 15 guests you will need to create your own, or use one of the free extra characters provided by Freeform Games when you download Under the Big Top.

Can I host Under the Big Top and also play a character?

The host has an important role in Under the Big Top. 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. 

But if you still want to host a game and play a character (or you have to because a player cannot attend), I have advice on doing that here.

Click here to purchase Under the Big Top from Freeform Games.

Comments

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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, click on my What's New page.

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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