A month ago, I launched a small passion project called SQL Noir — a web-based detective game where you solve crimes using real SQL queries.
I built it as a way to teach SQL through storytelling and logic — not textbooks. Each mission is a different case, with its own database and clues hidden inside tables. The only way to crack the case? Query your way to the truth.
To my surprise, it blew up! Reddit, Hacker News, and a bunch of blogs picked it up, and over 10,000 people played it on launch day. Since then, I've been getting ~700 daily visits — and players are even sharing how it helped them learn SQL for job interviews, or just made practicing SQL more fun.
🚨 Now: 2 New Cases Are Live!
I've just added two brand new missions, each with their own unique crimes, clues, and twists.
If you've played before — now’s your chance to return and put your detective hat back on.
If you're new to the game — it's free, no login, and beginner-friendly. Just bring your logic and basic SQL (or learn as you go).
💬 I'd love your feedback
If you give it a try, I'd really appreciate your thoughts:
- Are the cases too hard or too easy?
- Did the story make it more fun to learn?
- Any ideas for future crimes?
Also, if you're into open source, I'd love help creating even more missions — each one is just a database and a story.
Thanks for reading — and happy sleuthing 🕵️
P.S. If you’ve ever played SQL Murder Mystery or SQL Island, you’ll feel right at home.
Top comments (5)
Hey, leuk dat je dit deelt! Zelf was ik laatst ook op zoek naar iets om even te ontspannen en stuitte toevallig op spin macho. Ze hebben speciale bonussen voor spelers uit België, wat het meteen interessant maakte om het eens te proberen. Ik begon rustig met een paar casinospellen, verloor eerst wat kleine inzetten, maar nam daarna iets meer risico en had ineens een mooie winst. Het voelde echt spannend en gaf me een leuke afleiding van de dagelijkse drukte, en sindsdien speel ik daar regelmatig wanneer ik even wil relaxen en wat plezier wil hebben in België.
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“I Made a Detective Game That Teaches You SQL” is an innovative concept that combines problem-solving with learning. In this game, players take on the role of a detective who must analyze clues hidden in a database to solve crimes. Instead of traditional puzzles 51 game hack, players use real SQL queries to uncover evidence, question suspects, and connect the dots between data tables. This unique approach not only makes learning SQL engaging but also helps players understand how data analysis can be applied in real-world investigations, making it both educational and entertaining.
Good job
It looks good, if you add more animatiosn or images that will make it more interactive? That's pretty cool.