- Combining anthropomorphic animals with noir sensibility… A bizarre incident surrounding the death of a chicken
- Entered Early Access following Kickstarter success, with 4 additional cases scheduled for a free update.
Wise Monkey Entertainment Ltd, an indie studio based in London, UK, released the comedy murder mystery adventure ‘No Stone Unturned’ on Steam Early Access on April 29.
Starring Detective Cox, a squirrel detective suffering from amnesia, this game is a comedy noir-style detective RPG that combines anthropomorphic animal characters, black humor, and fast-paced mini-games. The launch price is £9.99/$11.99/€11.99, and free case updates will continue through 2026 following the successful Kickstarter funding.
A bizarre investigation starting with the death of a chicken
One dark, stormy morning, Detective Cox, who dreams of becoming the world’s greatest detective, discovers the carcass of a chicken by the roadside. He then becomes obsessed with a single question: Why did the chicken cross the road? What was it running away from? Who, or what, stopped it?
The game begins with the story of Cox, a squirrel detective suffering from amnesia, investigating the mysterious death of a chicken found on a secluded road in the small town of Orchard Under Hill. Players must interrogate residents and collect clues using a magnifying glass, a voice recorder, and a crowbar that can be used depending on the situation.
The game progresses by combining collected clues to gradually approach the truth of the case, and the entire process is accompanied by fast-paced mini-games.
An investigation that extends to interrogation, selection, and recovery
The player investigates six crimes and interrogates anthropomorphic animal residents inspired by fairy tale characters to uncover dark secrets one by one. The game goes beyond simple investigation, featuring a structure where players repair collapsed bridges and buildings to unlock new areas and access key clues.
In particular, choices play a crucial role. The direction and outcome of the investigation change depending on the player’s judgment, and the gameplay emphasizes approaching the truth in one’s own way rather than relying on moral standards.
The Early Access version includes the first case, ‘Cat Got Your Tongue’. It offers over two hours of gameplay filled with absurd humor and detective investigation.
All artwork, animation, and voice acting were created entirely by humans without the aid of AI, leaving room for various interpretations even after the conclusion of the case. The story is planned to be expanded through future additional case updates.
Detective Cox Bringed to Life as a Doll, an Unusual Collaboration
To bring the character Cox to life, Wise Monkey Entertainment Ltd partnered with Jim Henson’s Creature Shop to produce an official doll of the Detective with the Big Teeth.
The completed Cox doll actually appeared at gaming events such as MCM and PAX, and actor David Carter provided the voice, bringing the character to life. This collaboration is drawing attention as an exceptional move for an indie game.
Overseas media outlets are highly praising the unique character of this work. Critics who experienced it firsthand at PAX West described it as a “witty and delightful experience,” introducing it as a distinctive title that combines narrative adventure, murder mystery, parody, and mini-games.
The debut work of a former room escape designer raised by detective parents.
Game creator Gareth Owens entered the film industry as a freelance writer at the age of 12 by lying about his age, and later built a career as an escape room designer at London’s top immersive entertainment company.
Influenced by his parents, who were detectives, and inspired by classic comedies, he became interested in the mystery genre. Combined with his love for video games and skepticism about the film industry facing a crisis due to streaming, he began self-teaching game development. After years of effort, he released his debut title with the help of a small team of remote experts and artists.
The game entered Early Access after successfully completing its Kickstarter funding. Four additional cases are scheduled to be released as free updates in the future, and all events are connected to one big story.
No Stone Unturned is a representative example of the experimental nature typical of indie games, featuring a unique composition that combines comedy, noir, detective investigation, and mini-games. The sequentially expanding episodes available through Early Access and the overarching, interconnected story structure are also highly anticipated elements. Players who enjoy bizarre humor and choice-driven investigations should definitely check out this squirrel detective’s first case.
Information regarding ‘No Stone Unturned’
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Developer / Publisher | Wise Monkey Entertainment Ltd |
| Genre | Comedy Murder Mystery / Detective Adventure RPG / Mini-game |
| Release platform | PC (Steam) |
| Release date | April 29, 2026 (Early Access) |
| price | £9.99 / $11.99 / €11.99 (Expected to increase by 33% upon official launch) |
| Early Access Details | Case 1 ‘Cat Got Your Tongue’ (over 2 hours) + 4 additional cases to be updated for free |
| Special collaboration | Jim Henson’s Creature Shop (Production of the official Detective Cox puppet) |
| Voice | David Carter |
| Funding | Successful Kickstarter funding (including the first comic book) |
| Main Keywords | Comedy, Noir, Anthropomorphic Animals, Puppets, Mystery, Mini-games, Episodes |
| Steam Page | Shortcut |
