[Board Review] Unsolved Case Files: Jamie Banks - A full-scale mystery game that uncovers the truth behind a 1992 high school student murder case
The mysterious death of a high school student occurred in the quiet town of Verona , Massachusetts in 1992 .
The police concluded it was a suicide, but the truth remains shrouded in mystery.
The game takes you into a 30-year-old unsolved case and offers a true detective experience.
In this article, we will thoroughly explain the appeal and challenges of this mystery game based on the voices of actual players and detailed information.
Game Basics
Unsolved Case Files: Jamie Banks is a masterpiece of cooperative detective gaming.
Unsolved Case Files: Jamie Banks is a cooperative mystery game for one or more players.
The average play time is 2-3 hours (maximum 6 hours) and the recommended age is 14 years and older .
Designed by John Carroll and published by Unsolved Case Files (Pressman/Goliath Games).
The core mechanics of the game are evidence analysis and deduction .
Players take on the role of detectives, meticulously examining over 50 investigative documents and photographs to solve three tiered objectives .
Completing each objective unlocks a bonus envelope , revealing new evidence and the next challenge.
On November 20, 1992 , Jamie Banks , an 18-year-old high school student at Elmwood High School in Verona, Massachusetts, fell to his death from a window in the newspaper club's sixth-floor workroom.
The police have ruled it a suicide, but your mission is to find evidence that the incident was in fact a murder .
Unsolved Case Files: The Allure of Jamie Banks
Realistic evidence and a step-by-step solution system create an authentic detective experience.
Immersive experience with authentic evidence
The biggest attraction is the high quality of the realistic evidence .
According to product information from Goliath Games, the game includes a set of evidence sealed in a plastic bag labeled "Evidence," with the words " Authorized Personnel Only " added to the realism.
The contents consist of:
- 1 file folder
- An envelope containing 10 photos
- One newspaper article
- 1 class photo
- 5 Witness Packets with Photos
- Five witness statements
- Four different documents of evidence
- 3 Bonus Envelopes
Jeff Provine writes, " The manila folders contain documents, statements, interview transcripts, newspaper articles, photo envelopes and enlarged cards , making them look like real police evidence."
Concerns and solutions
There are some challenges, but they can be overcome with the right mindset and measures.
Questions about the logical consistency of the story
However, a detailed review by Meeple Mountain's Justin Bell offers a harsh assessment of Jamie Banks' case.
It has been pointed out that the book is " logically flawed " and that the final murder method is physically impossible , and specific verification results have also been reported, stating that " my wife and I tried to recreate the murder scene, but it was impossible to carry out the method described ."
Solution: The key to dealing with this issue is to have the mindset of enjoying games as entertainment .
The focus is on enjoying the reasoning process itself rather than perfect logic, and logical inconsistencies can be overcome by enjoying discussions through cooperative play with family and friends .
Poorly adjusted difficulty
The review also points out that " the beginning is too easy, while the latter half is unrealistic ."
While " the first answer was obvious within the first five minutes ," the second and third goals required a logical leap .
Solution: As stated in the official FAQ, the online answer key has a three-level hint function .
If you enter an incorrect answer, a hint button will appear , providing step-by-step support , allowing you to adjust the difficulty level appropriately.
Taking notes while playing also helps with organizing information and logical thinking.
One-time play limit
As stated in the official FAQ, there is a drawback to this game: once you know the ending, you will never have the same experience .
Solution: Once you're done playing, you can give it away to other mystery game enthusiasts to protect your investment.
Additionally, the Unsolved Case Files series features multiple cases , allowing players to continue their detective experience by exploring cases other than Jamie Banks.
Recommended for these people and occasions
This is a game that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people, from mystery enthusiasts to beginners.
Mystery and detective novel lovers
One highly rated Amazon reviewer describes themselves as a " mystery fan and escape room enthusiast " and says this is their " third or fourth purchase ."
It is especially suitable for people who love to read and enjoy logical thinking .
The official FAQ also clearly states that " if you have read the book alone, you can play alone ."
Weekend games for families and couples
The reviewer also commented that it would be "great for weekend game nights ," making it ideal for families or couples to work together for 2-3 hours .
The Meeple Mountain review also shows the reviewer playing the game with his wife .
Use as a party game
According to official information, " there is no limit to the number of players ," and " if there are 6-8 or more players, they can be divided into multiple teams and compete ."
Mind Games And Toys also states that it is " perfect for parties " and allows for large groups to enjoy reasoning discussions .
Considerations for beginners
The game is suitable for ages 14 and up and has a "PG-13 movie level" content rating, so even beginners to mystery games can play with confidence .
Additionally, the online hint function ensures that players of all experience levels can enjoy the game .
Unsolved Case Files: Jamie Banks is especially recommended for those seeking a serious detective experience , those looking to enjoy a cooperative game with family and friends , or those looking to add some extra fun to their weekend .
Many players have had a satisfying mystery experience .
However, you can expect a more fulfilling gaming experience if you prioritize entertainment value over logical perfection.
Check the product on the online store page
Free shipping throughout Japan. Orders placed before 3pm will be shipped the same day.
Reference source/quote source
- Meeple Mountain - Unsolved Case Files Game Review: Jamie & Harmony
- Table Top Cafe - Unsolved Case Files: Jamie Banks
- Blogcritics - Game Review: Jamie Banks Case from Unsolved Case Files and Pressman
- TheGamer - Best Unsolved Case Files In 2024
- Unsolved Case Files - Jamie Banks Official Page
- Unsolved Case Files - How to Play
- Unsolved Case Files - FAQs
- Goliath Games - Unsolved Case Files 2: Jamie Banks
- Mind Games And Toys - Unsolved Case Files Banks, Jamie