The Mermaid Mask (v2026.07.19)

A locked-room killing aboard a bizarre submarine gives this detective adventure an immediate, deliciously offbeat hook. Detective Grimoire and his sharp-tongued partner Sally investigate the death of a captain whose past invites every possible explanation, from supernatural curses to impossible science-fiction theories. The Mortuga Submarine sits beneath the waters near an abandoned fishing settlement, creating a claustrophobic setting full of eccentric personalities, unnerving folklore, and humor that keeps the mystery from becoming oppressively grim.

Investigation revolves around speaking with the crew, scrutinizing their stories, collecting evidence, and connecting clues through Grimoire’s deduction system. Players move through richly illustrated submarine rooms, searching each screen for interactive details and examining important finds as tactile 3D objects that can reveal extra information when turned and inspected. Conversations matter as much as item hunting: suspects react to accusations, contradictions need to be noticed, and the case only advances when the evidence supports the right line of questioning. The pace is relaxed rather than punishing, making it more about following the logic of a well-built whodunit than overcoming arcade-style challenges.

Its strongest feature is the personality packed into every corner of the setting. Hand-painted environments, expressive character animation, full English voice acting, and an orchestral score give the submarine the feel of an animated mystery serial, while the premise happily balances gothic creepiness with absurd speculation. Fans of classic point-and-click adventures, Professor Layton-style clue chasing, or cozy murder mysteries with strange paranormal edges find plenty to enjoy here. Newcomers benefit from its approachable structure, while veteran adventure players are likely to appreciate the careful attention paid to evidence, suspect motives, and the many small details hiding behind the captain’s death.