The original concept came from a DOS program called Sleuth written by Eric N. Miller in 1983. This program was essentially a text-based game using simple CGA graphics for the crime location.

As a writer of educational software, I wanted to keep the original flavour of the game (the text-based style) but improve the look-and-feel of the interface and allow for different levels of skill. In this way I could provide an innovative way of promoting spelling, comprehension, reading and problem-solving skills within a visually appealing interface.

Over the years I have noticed a dependency on "bells and whistles" by software producers with little focus on the actual learning outcomes achieved by the users.

By including graphic elements, with a variety of scenarios and challenges, I wanted to see if I could create a viable product without same said dependency and have the users feel that they have achieved a satisfactory outcome.