Mystery Interactive

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What inspired you to start your business?

I’ve always been passionate about puzzles and mystery games, and I used to create them for my friends and family. Over time, I realized how much joy and engagement these experiences brought to people, which inspired me to turn my passion into a business. With a deep appreciation for education through play, I love seeing both kids and adults get excited about learning, overcome challenging puzzles, and immerse themselves in a story.

How would you describe your business?

At its core, this is a handmade puzzle and mystery game business. Each game is personally designed and assembled by me—I do it all, from creating puzzles and graphic design to stuffing the envelopes and writing thank-you cards!

I offer a variety of games for players aged 9 to 99, including murder mysteries, whodunits, trivia challenges, and puzzle adventure advent calendars. Inclusivity is a key focus in my designs; I use gender-neutral language, provide written text alongside verbal recordings, and feature diverse characters.

Every puzzle is carefully tested to ensure a balance between challenge and fun. I love incorporating unique elements like digital pages, creative physical components, and humor. I draw inspiration from the world around me, and those who know me often see me with a notebook, jotting down ideas for interesting puzzles or captivating storylines. My goal is to make players feel like they’re part of an unfolding mystery, rather than just solving a series of unrelated puzzles.

Sustainability is also important to me. I strive to use recyclable, locally sourced materials wherever possible. My games are primarily paper-based, packaged in paper envelopes and cardboard boxes. I also partner with a local retailer to repurpose their packing peanuts for shipping. Additionally, I offer several digital games that can be played directly on a mobile device!

What’s your bestselling product?

World Adventures is my bestselling product—a 24-day adventure advent calendar. It features 24 envelopes that guide players through a travel-themed storyline, with a new puzzle each day to help them progress on their journey. Some puzzles even require components from previous days, adding an extra layer of challenge and continuity.

The game is popular among families, couples, and older teens. That said, I’ve also seen some brilliant younger players take on the challenge, which is always fun to see! It has received fantastic feedback for its engaging puzzles and immersive storytelling.

Why do you think it’s so popular?

I think people love the personal touch and unique experience my games provide. I’ve heard from customers that they make amazing gifts, especially for teens—offering an engaging activity away from screens and without the use of lots of plastic, which gets them excited to use their brains!

Some customers have made it an annual tradition to purchase one of my advent calendars, which brings me so much joy. I’m truly touched to be part of their family time.

The use of environmentally friendly materials also resonates with many of my customers. Each game is made with recyclable components, including paper-based materials for the puzzles and packaging. I ensure that the production process minimizes waste, partnering with local suppliers whenever possible.

Additionally, the combination of immersive storytelling and challenging puzzles creates a sense of adventure and accomplishment. Players become invested in the story and characters, feeling a real sense of excitement when they crack a code or make a key deduction! All my games have detailed hints and solutions, which really help players understand how to solve the puzzles and not get frustrated 🙂

Finally, I actively incorporate player feedback to continuously refine and improve the games, ensuring that each new version is even more engaging than the last.

What’s your favourite product from your own shop?

For adults, Save the Wedding is my newest addition, and I’m pretty obsessed! It may look beautiful and unassuming, but don’t be fooled—it’s the most challenging game I offer! With twists and turns at every step, players get to do all kinds of cool things, like travel to a resort, hack into a bank account, and help Gabby reclaim her dream wedding.

For a younger audience, I love Wonderland, a 24-day adventure advent calendar designed for kids. It’s a super tactile experience, filled with hands-on puzzles that spark curiosity and excitement. Kids absolutely love it!

What’s your favourite Victoria shop?

Oh my goodness, so many! I love Pure Loving Chocolate (a Canadian chocolate brand) – the BEST ice cream Sunday. I also love Glanford Greenhouses for their fresh vegetables.