Noir Syndrome

Noir Syndrome is a procedurally generated detective murder mystery set in a stylized film-noir world, with pixel art animations and a jazzy soundtrack. Each playthrough gives you a new story: visit locations, question suspects and search for clues to solve the case before the killer escapes—or you are killed.

Investigate the case

Examine objects and talk to characters across a range of environments to learn about the killer. Record important clues in your detective’s notebook to help narrow down the suspects. Each generated case has a new culprit and clues.

You have a set number of days to solve the mystery, and each area you visit reduces the time remaining. Your choices persist—including interactions with NPCs and death—until you start a new game. You can pursue the case or spend your remaining time as you choose, whether that means fighting the law, going after gang members or exploring the city.

Combat and challenges

Combat is best avoided: a single bullet can take you down, though you can use a revolver when necessary. Optional challenges unrelated to the main case are generated in each game, and completing them grants permanent bonuses to future playthroughs.

Unlocks and records

You can earn badges by completing challenges; these affect future playthroughs. Multiple costumes are also unlockable, including outfits beyond the default male and female detectives. Statistics and high scores across a wide range of topics persist between games.