Murder and Cocktails: A Game Designer's Journey

Man Cave Happy Hour

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Blindfolds, cocktails, and murder – what more could you want from a dinner party? Creator Jill Bell joins us to reveal the story behind "Murder on the Rocks," the cocktail party murder mystery game that's completely reinventing game night.
With a PhD in cybersecurity and experience as a firefighter, Jill never expected to become a game designer. Yet her creation just funded at an astonishing 985% on Kickstarter, proving there's serious thirst for innovative party games that combine adult beverages with clever gameplay mechanics. What makes this game special? Unlike traditional one-and-done mystery boxes, Murder on the Rocks features beautifully illustrated clue cards designed for multiple interpretations, making every playthrough a unique experience.
The game works brilliantly in its simplicity: players attend a masquerade party at Whiskey Ridge Manor, don blindfolds during a "dance party" phase, and the designated murderer secretly "poisons" someone's drink – typically with grenadine to simulate blood. The victim then receives cryptic clue cards that may or may not point to the killer's identity. As Jill explains, "It's all about strategy... do you want to try and spread out the game?" The murderer walks a delicate line between misleading other players while avoiding suspicion themselves.
We explore the stunning artwork created by illustrator Zoe Almond-Job, the character-themed signature cocktails, and even get a sneak peek at Jill's next project – "Shots at Sundown," a Wild West-themed drinking game where your cocktail serves as ammunition in gunslinging duels. Whether you're a murder podcast enthusiast or simply looking for your next game night obsession, this conversation will have you reaching for both the cocktail shaker and your detective hat.
Murder on the Rocks will be available in 2024, with late pledges still open on Kickstarter. Visit MisfitMixers.com to learn more about this killer combination of mystery and mixology!

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Jamie Flanagan @DJJamieDetroit
Matt Fox @fox_beazlefox

August Gitschlag @rawgusto
Merch www.WearingFunny.com

Chapters

1. Welcome to Man Cave Happy Hour (00:00:00)

2. Introducing Murder on the Rocks (00:03:13)

3. Meet Jill: PhD, Firefighter, Game Creator (00:06:32)

4. How to Play Murder on the Rocks (00:14:37)

5. The Art and Backstories Behind the Game (00:22:35)

6. Character Cocktails and Game Development (00:30:28)

7. Preview of Shots at Sundown (00:43:05)

8. Wrapping Up and Where to Buy (00:58:22)