In an era where modern gaming often gravitates toward high-speed action and cutting-edge graphics, Leipzig-based Homo Narrans Studio is taking players on a fascinating journey back to the 19th century with their upcoming point-and-click adventure, ‘Casebook 1889 – The Leipzig Murders’.
Set in the atmospheric streets of late 19th-century Leipzig, Germany, this retro-inspired detective adventure puts players in the shoes of Detective Joseph Kreiser, tasking them with unraveling four intricate murder cases that plague the historic city. The game, slated for release in 2025 on PC through both Steam and GOG, promises to deliver a richly immersive experience that blends historical accuracy with engaging gameplay.
Behind this ambitious project stands solo developer Gregor Müller, who has poured four years of dedication into crafting his first commercial release. “The release of Casebook 1889 is an enormous milestone for me personally,” Müller shares, reflecting on the countless late nights and learning experiences that have shaped the game’s development.
At its core, Casebook 1889 is more than just a murder mystery – it’s a window into a rarely explored chapter of European history. The game captures Leipzig at a pivotal moment, as the industrial revolution transforms this bustling city on the cusp of the 20th century. Through meticulously hand-pixellated environments and detailed animations, players will experience the authentic atmosphere of 19th-century Leipzig while navigating its crime-shadowed streets.
The gameplay mechanics stay true to the classic point-and-click adventure format while incorporating thoughtful modern design elements. Players must employ a variety of detective skills to solve each case:
Evidence Collection: Each beautifully crafted scene holds potential clues that players must carefully examine. The attention to historical detail ensures that every environment feels authentic to the period.
Witness Interrogation: The game features a nuanced approach to character interaction, where players must carefully navigate conversations with both witnesses and suspects. Success depends on asking the right questions and building trust with these characters to uncover hidden truths.
Detective’s Notebook: A crucial tool in any investigation, the notebook system allows players to maintain detailed records of their observations and witness statements. Each scene has its own dedicated page, making it easy to reference critical information when needed.
Deduction Board: Perhaps the most engaging feature is the deduction board, where players must combine discovered clues to form new conclusions. This system challenges players to think critically and piece together the evidence to identify the true culprit in each case.
What sets Casebook 1889 apart is its commitment to player agency. Each of the four murder cases offers multiple possible outcomes, with the player’s choice of culprit directly impacting the story’s conclusion. This design ensures that success depends entirely on the player’s deductive reasoning skills and attention to detail.
The game comes from Homo Narrans Studio, an independent developer with a passionate belief in the power of storytelling. The studio’s philosophy centers on the idea that humans are fundamentally storytelling beings, reflected in their Latin name “homo narrans.” This approach is evident in their commitment to creating games with deep narrative elements, rich character development, and immersive worlds that resonate with players long after they’ve finished playing.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Casebook 1889 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of thoughtful, story-driven experiences. By combining historical authenticity with engaging gameplay mechanics and meaningful player choices, this upcoming release promises to offer mystery enthusiasts and adventure game fans a unique opportunity to test their detective skills in a richly realized historical setting.
For those eager to don their detective’s cap and explore the mysterious streets of 19th-century Leipzig, Casebook 1889 – The Leipzig Murders will be available on PC through both Steam and GOG platforms in 2025. With its blend of historical accuracy, engaging gameplay, and multiple endings, this point-and-click adventure seems poised to offer players a compelling journey into one of Europe’s most fascinating historical periods.
