A Case of Distrust similar games & best alternatives
A Case of Distrust
2018
Related articles
Quick resume
A Case of Distrust is a narrative mystery from 1924 San Francisco. Play as private investigator Phyllis Cadence Malone in this historical 2D adventure game.
Global score
82/100
Genres
Adventure, Indie, Point-and-click, Puzzle
Pros
- Engaging noir detective story
- Stylish minimalist art and jazz soundtrack
- Logical deduction and clue gathering gameplay
- Immersive 1920s setting with historical flavor
- Well-written characters and dialogue
Cons
- Short game length with limited replay value
- Some tedious backtracking and menu navigation
- Lack of voice acting
- Price considered high for content length
- Final plot twist and ending received mixed reactions
Motivations
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Autonomy3
"Players direct their own investigation by choosing which clues to pursue and how to interrogate suspects, with some freedom in dialogue choices."
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Competence3
"Players engage in logical deduction and puzzle-solving by collecting clues and contradicting statements, requiring attention and reasoning."
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Competition-5
"Single-player narrative experience with no competitive elements or comparison to others."
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Continuation-3
"Short game length (~2-4 hours) and limited replay value reduce habitual or long session play."
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Cooperation-5
"Entirely single-player with no multiplayer or cooperative gameplay."
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Creativity2
"Players creatively piece together clues and decide interrogation strategies, though within a structured narrative."
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Domination-5
"No social or multiplayer interaction involving control or superiority over others."
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Escapism4
"Immersive 1920s noir setting and story provide a strong escape from real life."
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Expectation-4
"Players engage voluntarily out of interest in detective stories and narrative puzzles."
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Experimenting2
"Players try different dialogue options and interrogation approaches to uncover new information."
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Exploration1
"Players explore several locations and revisit them to gather clues, but environments are limited and familiar."
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Expression-4
"Minimal character customization or self-expression; focus is on narrative and investigation."
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Fantasy-3
"Realistic 1920s setting and grounded detective story with historical references."
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Fellowship-5
"No social or community features; purely solo experience."
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Growth3
"Players develop deductive reasoning and investigative skills through gameplay."
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Health-5
"Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity."
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Idle-3
"Requires focused attention to dialogue and clue gathering; not suitable for passive or background play."
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Intimacy-4
"Limited emotional connection through narrative but no social or close relationship building."
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Leadership-5
"No leadership or group management elements."
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Progression3
"Progression through accumulating clues and evidence to solve the case."
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Relaxation3
"Calm pacing with jazz soundtrack and reading-based gameplay offers a relaxed experience."
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Sensation1
"Stylized visuals and music provide moderate sensory stimulation without intense excitement."
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Status-5
"No social recognition or status systems."
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Story5
"Strong narrative focus with engaging plot, characters, and dialogue."
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Strategy3
"Requires logical thinking and planning to gather evidence and interrogate suspects effectively."
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Thrill1
"Some suspense from mystery and plot twists but overall controlled and calm experience."
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Value-2
"Short length and limited replay value reduce perceived value at full price; better on sale."
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Violence-3
"Minimal depiction of violence; focus is on investigation rather than combat or destruction."
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Survival-5
"No survival or threat avoidance mechanics; stable narrative environment."
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Last update: 06/03/2026