Why
- Designer (Uncredited)
- Publisher Alga , Chad Valley Co Ltd. , John Sands Pty Ltd , Juegos Crone , Jumbo
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Why, players investigate who was murdered in a haunted house, with what weapon, and why. You move through rooms, collect cards like guests, weapons, and motives, and use memory and trading to gather clues. Meeting other players allows accusations to reveal cards. The game ends when someone assembles a ghost, weapon, and motive or shows Alfred Hitchcock with the 'It's a Mystery to Me' card.
Who Is This Game For?
Why is a family game for 2 to 4 players aged 12 and up. Its approximately 45-minute playtime fits medium-length sessions. It's suitable for beginners who enjoy memory and deduction games and have some experience with tactical card collection.
How It Works
Gameplay centers on Roll/Spin and Move: players move their pieces through the haunted house to draw cards from rooms. Set Collection is key as players gather cards to complete guests, weapons, and motives. Trading allows exchanging cards or accusing others to claim cards. Remembering and tactically managing your hand and discard pile is crucial for victory.
What Makes It Special
Released by the Milton Bradley Company in 1958, Why is based on the TV show Alfred Hitchcock Presents. It uniquely combines Set Collection, Roll/Spin and Move, and Trading within a spooky haunted house mystery theme. It belongs to the families Celebrities: Alfred Hitchcock and Theme: Spooky Old Houses.
Pro
- Combination of deduction, memory, and set collection
- Thematic focus on Alfred Hitchcock and haunted house
- Short playtime of about 45 minutes
- Simple mechanics like Roll/Spin and Move
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Outdated design and presentation
- Limited to 2-4 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a haunted house where six costumed guests were mysteriously murdered. Inspired by Alfred Hitchcock and ghost stories, it creates a dark, suspenseful atmosphere.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on remembering discarded cards well and use trading to acquire missing cards.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Why is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 45 minutes, suitable for medium-length play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Why is a family game with simple mechanics, suitable for players aged 12+ who enjoy deduction and memory games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Why combines Roll/Spin and Move with Set Collection and Trading in a mystery theme, distinguishing it from pure deduction games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, with a minimum age of 12 and moderate playtime, it suits families and casual players.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its blend of Roll/Spin and Move, Set Collection, and Trading in a deductive mystery setting defines Why.
Fazit
Why is a classic deduction game with nostalgic appeal, interesting for fans of mystery and memory. The lack of solo play and its vintage style might limit appeal for modern players.



















