The whodunit family mystery genre gets a deliciously deadly twist with Happy Broccoli Games' latest release, 'Apple Crumble'. This UK-based independent studio's new game promises to be a real cracker, drawing inspiration from the Agatha Christie-esque charm of 'Knives Out' and wrapping it in a delectable indie package. Set for launch on PC later in 2026, 'Apple Crumble' has all the makings of a top-notch whodunit – intricate plotlines, memorable characters, and just a dash of dark humour to keep things interesting.
Unlike their previous detective game, 'Duck Detective', this one's more about sussing out the secrets within a family home. Players are tasked with uncovering which loved one is hiding something sinister, all while snooping around the house for clues – literally every nook and cranny gets scrutinised. Founder Annika Maar describes it as a 'walking sim' where players can delve into drawers, cupboards, and more to piece together the tangled family narrative. As you dig deeper, you'll uncover the various grievances plaguing the family, slowly getting to the bottom of things.
Maar revealed that the concept for this "sad grandma game" stemmed from a desire to explore more emotionally charged territory after their earlier work's lighthearted tone. With 'Apple Crumble', they aim to capture the complexities and heartbreaks that often accompany family tragedies – as Maar shared, her personal connection to the theme is rooted in the loss of her grandmother.
The game's unique storytelling lies in its attention to environmental detail. The narrative weaves itself into everyday objects and items scattered throughout the house. Players might stumble upon a film script penned by a 'midlife crisis uncle', who thinks it'll secure funding, for instance. Maar believes these "small details" are crucial in making the world feel authentic and immersive.
The distinctive art style also adds to its charm, inspired by the concept art of 'Puss in Boots'. The subtle paint splatters create a rich texture that rewards closer inspection – giving the environments a natural, less clinical feel. As Maar puts it, "It's more exciting to look at." With voice actor recordings set to start soon and actors planning to be recorded together for natural interactions, the studio is aiming to capture the raw tension and emotion of familial relationships.