When Murdered: Soul Suspect launched in 2014, it slipped under the radar. Overshadowed by bigger releases and criticized for its limited mechanics, the game never received the spotlight it deserved. But fast forward to today, and with over 4,000 Very Positive reviews on Steam, it’s clear that players have found something truly special here.
A Murder Mystery with a Supernatural Twist
You play as Ronan O’Connor, a Boston detective whose life is cut short by a brutal murder. Instead of ending there, his story begins in the afterlife. As a ghost, Ronan must investigate his own death while unravelling the mystery of the elusive Bell Killer haunting Salem.
The premise is instantly gripping: a classic noir detective tale layered with supernatural intrigue. What makes Murdered: Soul Suspect unique is how it flips the perspective—solving crimes not as a living investigator, but as a spirit navigating between the human world and the ghostly remnants of the past.
Gameplay Focused on Investigation, Not Combat
Unlike many action-heavy titles, Murdered: Soul Suspect keeps its pace thoughtful. Exploration, clue gathering, and piecing together evidence are the heart of the gameplay. You’ll possess objects and even people to gather information, peek into memories, and uncover hidden truths.
There are a few stealth-like encounters with demonic entities, but they’re more tense than difficult. This design choice keeps the focus on solving the mystery rather than constant battles, a refreshing change for players seeking narrative-driven gameplay.
Salem as a Character
The setting of Salem, Massachusetts, adds atmospheric weight to the story. The town’s history of witch trials, hauntings, and superstition feels like a perfect backdrop for Ronan’s ghostly investigation. Streets are layered with spectral echoes of the past, blending historical tragedy with modern crime drama in a way few games attempt.
Strengths That Shine with Time
Though some critics once called the gameplay “too simple”, modern players often praise the game for exactly that—it’s accessible, story-driven, and doesn’t overcomplicate its mechanics. The haunting narrative, strong atmosphere, and emotional resonance have aged far better than its initial reception suggested.
The Steam community’s love highlights what many missed: it’s less about fast-paced mechanics and more about storytelling, mood, and immersing yourself in a mystery that feels personal.
Where It Stumbles
Not everything works perfectly. Some side content feels repetitive, character models occasionally dip into uncanny territory, and the stealth sequences with demons can be frustrating. Still, these issues are minor compared to the game’s strong emotional core.
Final Thoughts: A Hidden Treasure in the Mystery Genre
Murdered: Soul Suspect may not have been a blockbuster hit, but today it stands as a hidden gem. For fans of supernatural mysteries, detective stories, or games like L.A. Noire with a paranormal twist, it’s a must-play experience. With its heartfelt narrative and unique ghostly mechanics, it’s no wonder it continues to gather love and glowing reviews years later.
Platform: PlayStation 3&4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC
Developer: Airtight Games
Played On: PC
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