Review: The Last Case Of John Morley

Posted by: Gianna Cosimini | December 1, 2025 | Review, Detective

If you have been looking for a game that lets you step right into a classic detective novel without the stress of getting stuck on impossible puzzles, The Last Case of John Morley is a wonderful find. While it shares DNA with games like Sherlock Holmes, it offers a much more streamlined, relaxing experience. This is a game about soaking in the mood and enjoying a good story at your own pace.

The Lore

You step into the shoes of John Morley, a detective returning to work in the 1940s after a difficult recovery. You are hired by Lady Fordside to investigate a tragic cold case involving her daughter, a mystery that has remained unsolved for 20 years. The setting is a beautifully eerie, abandoned manor that feels like a character in itself. It is a classic noir setup that instantly pulls you in with its intrigue and style.

Graphics & Atmosphere

This is easily the game’s highlight. The team at Indigo Studios has used Unreal Engine to create a truly stunning, moody world. The lighting is dramatic and heavy on shadows, perfectly capturing that “film noir” aesthetic. Walking through the dusty halls of the manor with just your lantern creates a wonderfully spooky, but not terrifying, vibe. It’s immersive and rich with detail, making exploration a joy.

While there are small indie quirks here and there, they honestly add to the charm of the production. The environments are crafted with care, and the visual style does a fantastic job of transporting you back to the 40s.

The Gameplay Loop

The gameplay is designed to be accessible and smooth. Instead of frustrating you with vague objectives, the game gently guides you forward. You explore rooms, find keys, and discover codes to progress deeper into the manor.

For players who dislike hitting “roadblocks” in games, this approach is a breath of fresh air. It feels less like a test of skill and more like an interactive movie where you are the star. The puzzles are logical and light, ensuring that the pacing never drags. You can simply enjoy the feeling of being a detective piecing together the narrative without the fear of failure.

Narrative & Audio

The story pays homage to the golden age of detective fiction. It provides a comforting sense of familiarity for fans of the genre, with twists and turns that, while classic, are delivered with style. It is a satisfying tale of secrets and past regrets that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

John Morley narrates your journey with a lot of personality, giving you insight into his thoughts as you explore. It adds a nice layer of companionship to the solitary exploration. The developers have created a complete package that feels passionate and well-intentioned.

The Verdict

The Last Case of John Morley is a delightful, bite-sized mystery that respects your time. It’s a polished, atmospheric experience that is perfect for a cozy night in.

You’ll love this if: