A Film noir-based detective game with an immersive plot

A Case of Distrust is a game which captures the atmosphere of prohibition-era America, which has long held sway over the popular imagination. The 1920’s have often been celebrated in film noir with gritty detective novels that depict the hard-boiled romance of the period; now, the genre has found its way into an immersive game that places the player centre stage.

Storyline

A Case of Distrust is based around the fictional character of Phyllis Cadence Malone, a San Francisco private detective. Embroiled in the struggle for emancipation, Malone must search the speakeasies, clubs and billiard bars of the city in search of clues to an unwinding storyline. As well as searching for physical clues, Malone must interview witnesses; this means corroborating testimonies, spotting inconsistencies and using guile to extract the truth. The game features 2D graphics and draws heavily from both the Sherlock Holmes board game and the novels of Raymond Chandler.

Conclusion

A Case of Distrust works well, owing to its unique storyline; the player is drawn into a rapidly-thickening plot that draws them back for more. The simple 2D graphics are basic but stylish enough to add to the atmosphere of the game and enhance the overall experience. The standout feature that makes this more than a simple puzzle game is the interaction with game characters; players must spot inconsistencies in statements using wits and physical evidence to establish the truth.