2025

Cluedo Mystery Calls

Description

A modern reinterpretation of Cluedo built during BU C&I Research Week. Players interrogate suspects via Bland.AI voice calls, review evidence, and solve a timed murder mystery — demonstrating rapid prototyping with AI code assistance.

Cluedo Mystery Calls is a modern reinterpretation of the classic Cluedo (Clue) board game, transforming static suspect cards into real-time voice interactions. Instead of reading character descriptions, players receive live phone calls from suspects, interrogate them, analyse their alibis, and attempt to solve the murder of Mr. Black.

The project was created during BU C&I Research Week, where students were experimenting with Bland.AI. After previous hackathons included requests for staff to build something alongside them, this prototype became an opportunity to explore how much could be achieved in a few evenings using GitHub Copilot. The result was a fully functional, voice-driven mystery experience.

Cluedeo Calls

What the Game Does

Cluedo Mystery Calls adapts the traditional deductive format into a conversational investigation:

  • Real outbound phone calls to suspects using Bland.AI voice technology
  • Unique voice profiles and personalities for classic Cluedo characters
  • Interactive case files containing evidence, suspect notes, and alibis
  • Automatic call transcripts to support investigation tracking
  • Accusation and debrief with the Chief Inspector
  • A real-time countdown to increase tension and urgency
  • Noir-inspired visual design and interface styling

Cluedeo Calls

Technology Overview

The project is built using:

  • React + React Router (TypeScript) for structure and routing
  • TailwindCSS for rapid interface development
  • Bland.AI for all voice call interactions
  • Vite for efficient development and bundling

Getting Started

Requirements

  • Node.js (v16+)
  • npm or yarn
  • Bland.AI account and API key
  • Verified phone number to receive calls

Installation

# Clone the repository
git clone https://github.com/yourusername/cluedo-mystery-calls.git

# Navigate to project directory
cd cluedo-mystery-calls

# Install dependencies
npm install

# Copy the environment file
cp .env.example .env

Add your Bland.AI API key to:

VITE_BLAND_API_KEY=your_api_key_here

If using personal Bland pathways:

VITE_USE_PERSONAL_PATHWAYS=true

Running the Game

npm run dev

The game launches at:

http://localhost:5173