异闻录 | Special Rumors

This physical-set game is also available in China, so Chinese reviews may exist; you might want to check them out too.

Played at: LOADING SG
8 characters (4 female, 4 male) with no detectives; also playable with just 7

Compared to LOADING SG’s other case, Special Rumors is less conventional and less accessible. Set in an anachronistic version of ye olde Europe, this faction game’s physical set and game structure are arguably more interesting than the underlying case.

Case: There are two tasks: identifying the members of one faction (with voting thus meant to be along faction lines), and finding the murderer (with all players free to vote for them, even if they are faction-mates). Perhaps we didn’t get a full debrief, but I found the threads of logic underdeveloped in both cases. This does provide lots of fun leeway for the players who are trying to escape suspicion, but the lack of rigour may bother those who focus on analysis.

Suspects: In-character confusion is an intended feature of this case, which you may or may not enjoy. Interpersonal ties are quite developed, which increases engagement and can make for some fun confrontations.

Structure: The game starts off in an unexpected manner, with a significant lead-up before discussion begins. There’s a larger dramatic component compared to LOADING SG’s other game; I’d recommend playing in Chinese if you can, since the NPCs might be more comfortable in that language.

That’s the core experience; what about LOADING SG’s specific implementation?

Setting: The physical set heightens the game’s dramatic elements, from the unique opening stages, through to mid-game cutscenes and the ending itself. Costumes were cool, though props felt a bit perfunctory.

Translation: Generally fine, though some of the names are odd. Any confusion in this case arises from the content itself, not the translation.

Facilitation: Our gamemaster was patient and accommodating. He nudged us along where required, without spoiling the game, and was open to providing clarifications.

Try if you like: Dramatic sets; interesting game structure; social deduction and intrigue.

Not recommended for: Players who prefer a focus on hard evidence; players who don’t enjoy faction games; players who are sensitive about the use of quasi-Christian elements (watch the trailer for a sense of this).

青鸾居 | Qing Luan Residence

This physical-set game is also available in China, so Chinese reviews may exist; you might want to check them out too.

Played at: LOADING SG
6 characters (2 female, 4 male) with up to 2 additional detectives; also playable with just 5

Set in historical China, this physical-set game is a great all-rounder, with dramatic backstories, plot twists, interesting physical elements, and a solid underlying case.

Case: The case is accessible without being simplistic. Clear threads of logic should allow most groups to approach the truth, while leaving room for the murderer to manoeuvre. There are various fun revelations, some more predictable than others.

Suspects: One or two are less integrated into the storyline, while another one or two have a larger burden to bear, but I don’t think anyone will feel completely left out. It helps that everyone is trying to solve some mysteries and hide some secrets of their own.

Structure: Gameplay begins with a cute narrative skit (小剧场) that includes the detective(s). The endgame is thorough, with reminders that more is at stake than merely the truth of the murder.

That’s the core experience; what about LOADING SG’s specific implementation?

Setting: The dramatic entryway set the tone well. The main playing area is minimalistic in comparison, but cool physical elements do appear later. Costumes were stylish (arrive early if you need time to take photos!) and props were fine.

Translation: Generally clear and fluent. Ironically, bilingual groups might be thrown off by how English versions of names (e.g. Edith, Eric) are used instead of pinyin transliterations — making it easier for those who can’t read Chinese, but possibly causing confusion (and being incongruent with the setting).

Facilitation: Our gamemaster was patient and clear in her explanations, and didn’t assume that players are familiar with the genre; this might be particularly helpful for English-speaking players, who are less likely to have jubensha experience.

Try if you like: Dramatic backstories; discoveries and surprises; physical-set jubensha in general.

Not recommended for: Jaded veterans who are tired of common jubensha tropes? But I’d recommend this case to anyone, really.