Murder In Tehran's Alleys 2016 is a third-person mystery adventure game developed for PC. Players follow the investigation of a brutal family murder carried out by a crystal meth addict under severe hallucination. The narrative centers on detective Faramarz Afshar as he pursues leads connected to the crime and its aftermath in Tehran.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around controlling detective Faramarz Afshar in third-person view while examining crime scenes, reviewing evidence, and piecing together the sequence of events. The story draws directly from the real-world inspired events described in the premise, where the perpetrator later seeks revenge against those he blames for his addiction and downfall. Interaction focuses on dialogue choices during interrogations and careful observation of recorded footage and victim statements that drive the plot forward. The game emphasizes narrative progression over action, with players advancing through linear chapters that highlight the clash between personal violence, rational deduction, and religious themes.
Exploration takes place across locations in Tehran, where the detective gathers clues tied to the serial killings and the societal impact of the crimes. The experience incorporates elements reminiscent of classic detective stories, requiring players to connect the dots between the initial family tragedy and the subsequent wave of violence. System requirements remain modest, supporting older hardware with basic mouse and keyboard controls for navigation and selection.
Game Modes
The title offers a single-player campaign only. There are no multiplayer options, competitive modes, or cooperative features. The entire experience unfolds as a continuous story mode that follows the detective's case from start to finish without branching paths or alternative scenarios beyond the main narrative thread.
Story and Themes
The plot begins with the shocking murder of an entire family by Jamshid Farrokhi during a drug-induced episode. Once sober, the killer turns his rage outward, targeting those responsible for supplying the narcotics and leading to his personal ruin. Detective Faramarz Afshar, a 32-year-old investigator, receives the assignment to solve what becomes one of the most challenging cases of his career. The narrative weaves in the recorded murder footage and victim confessions that spark public outrage, while exploring the tension between raw violence, logical reasoning, and religious concepts of sin. The game positions itself as a tribute to David Fincher's Se7en through its focus on serial killing and moral confrontation.
Is It Worth Playing?
Player reception on Steam stands at mixed, with 60 percent positive ratings from a small number of reviews totaling around ten. Those who completed the game noted its straightforward mystery structure and the weight of its subject matter. The title suits players seeking a focused, story-driven adventure centered on investigation and dark themes rather than fast-paced action or complex systems. With its 2017 release and no further updates or seasons, the game remains a static single-player experience available through standard digital purchase. Individuals interested in narrative mysteries set against a specific cultural backdrop may find value in its concise presentation, while those preferring extensive replayability or modern mechanics might look elsewhere.
