Murdered in Plain Text is a murder mystery puzzle solving game influenced by classic crime novels, mystery games and the game Cluedo. However this game has a twist, set in the world of digital preservation all the characters are file formats and one has been murdered. As a contestant you will have to track down the killer, the motive and other key parts of the puzzle. This will be done by using your digital preservation know how, solving puzzles, deciphering clues and interviewing suspects.

The main version of this game is in development and will be a web page based game that can be played online by individuals or in collaboration with groups. We will be using twine (an open source storytelling tool) to develop the game and then creating a web page. Making it an accessible game for many people to play easily on computer or phone. Alongside this we are developing a collaborative table top game, similar to a murder mystery dinner party pack in style, that incorporates the same themes, characters and puzzles. Similarly to Cluedo as the solutions will be variable this game can be played multiple times.

Both the storyline and the puzzles will have a strong emphasis on digital preservation while also retaining a strong storytelling element, lots of puns and humour.