How to Play Wink Murder (Rules, Tips & Variations) | Classic Parlor Game

Wink Murder is a classic parlor game of mystery, suspense, and laughter. One player is secretly chosen as the murderer and tries to “kill” others with a wink, while the detective works to catch them before everyone is out.

I love this game because of the playful acting — especially when people dramatically “die” after being winked at. That’s always been my favorite part, and it never fails to get the group laughing.

Objective

The goal of Wink Murder is for the murderer to eliminate as many townspeople as possible without being caught. The detective must carefully watch the group and identify the murderer.

Age Range

Ages 8 and up.
Younger kids often struggle with winking, so the “Poison Dart Frog” variation (where the murderer sticks out their tongue instead of winking) is easier for them.

Game Length

5–15 minutes per round, depending on group size.

Why We Like It for Kids and Families

• The dramatic “acting out” of dying is hilarious and fun for everyone.
• Encourages observation, focus, and bluffing skills.
• Works with small or large groups.
• Can be adapted for younger kids with the poison dart frog version.

Skills Built

• Observation and attention to detail
• Bluffing and deception
• Social awareness and reading body language
• Confidence and performance (especially for kids overcoming shyness when they “act out” their deaths)

What You Need

• A group of 6+ players
• A way to secretly assign roles (cards, slips of paper, or whispers)

How to Play Wink Murder (Step by Step)

Step 1: Gather players in a circle

Sit in a circle (or around a table) where everyone can see each other clearly.

Step 2: Assign roles

Secretly choose one murderer, one detective, and the rest as townspeople. Cards work well: Ace = murderer, King = detective, others = townspeople.

Step 3: Explain roles

• Murderer: Winks at people to “kill” them.
• Detective: Observes and tries to identify the murderer.
• Townspeople: Try to survive while watching for suspicious behavior.

Step 4: Start the game

The detective closes their eyes or leaves the room while the murderer is chosen. Once roles are set, the detective rejoins the circle.

Step 5: Begin play

Everyone makes eye contact naturally. The murderer discreetly winks at other players to eliminate them.

Step 6: Act out your “death”

If you’re winked at, you must “die” within a few seconds — dramatically falling over, slumping in your chair, or acting silly.

Good acting tips:

• Fall slowly and dramatically.
• Clutch your chest or forehead.
• Slide out of your chair for laughs.
• Add a loud sigh or gasp.
• Be creative — the sillier the better!

Step 7: Continue until accused

The detective studies the group and makes one official accusation per round. If correct, the murderer is revealed. If wrong, the game ends and the murderer wins.

Rules of Wink Murder

• Murderer must wink discreetly — no exaggerated signals.
• Victims must “die” within a few seconds of being winked at.
• Victims must stay silent and not give away the murderer’s identity (no staring, pointing, or giggling after death).
• The detective gets only one official guess per round.
• Standard play has no pauses — murders happen continuously until the detective makes an accusation.

Strategies

For Murderers:

• Wink quickly and casually, blending it into normal eye contact.
• Spread out your kills — avoid eliminating people too fast or too many in a row.
• Don’t stare at your target before winking, or the detective will notice.

For Detectives:

• Watch for unnatural eye contact or repeated glances.
• Notice when someone reacts oddly or avoids looking around.
• Pay attention to timing — if multiple players “die” soon after eye contact with one person, that’s your suspect.

For Townspeople:

• Act natural to avoid drawing suspicion.
• Make your death as entertaining as possible when winked at.

Winning the Game

• If the detective correctly accuses the murderer → the detective and townspeople win.
• If the detective accuses wrong or is eliminated (in variations where that’s allowed) → the murderer wins.

Variations

• Poison Dart Frog: Instead of winking, the murderer sticks out their tongue quickly. Easier for younger kids.
• Discussion Style: Instead of the detective guessing silently, the group pauses after a few murders to discuss suspicions, then votes.
• Delayed Death: Victims “die” dramatically after 30 seconds instead of right away, adding suspense but making the game harder.
• Multiple Murderers: For larger groups, choose two murderers working together.

FAQs About Wink Murder

What are some other names for Wink Murder?
Wink Murder is also called Murder in the Dark, Winky, or Wink Assassin.

Why is a detective recommended?
Having one detective makes it clear who is responsible for making the accusation, keeping the game organized and fair. Without a detective, guessing can become chaotic.

What is the Poison Dart Frog variation?
Instead of winking, the murderer sticks out their tongue at players to “kill” them. This version is easier for kids who can’t wink yet.

What are some good acting ideas for when you “die”?

• Fall dramatically to the ground.
• Pretend to faint or swoon.
• Grab your chest like in a movie.
• Add a funny noise (groan, gasp, scream).
  The more over-the-top, the more fun the game!

How many players do you need?
At least 6, but the game works best with 10–20 people.

Can the detective be “killed”?
In the standard game, no. But in some variations, yes — and then townspeople continue without them.