The Colonel's Bequest

About

The Colonel's Bequest is a 1989 point-and-click adventure where you play Laura Bow, a college student figuring out murders at a reclusive millionaire's Louisiana estate. Set in 1925, the game drops you into a tense gathering of greedy relatives vying for a mysterious inheritance. You'll explore dimly lit rooms, interrogate suspects, and piece together clues to stop a killer before they strike again. The gameplay mixes inventory-based puzzles with dialogue choices that shape the flow of the investigation. The game stands out for its character-driven story and layered dialogue, which flesh out motives and relationships more deeply than many of its contemporaries. Though the Laura Bow series didn't last long, this entry remains a cult classic for its atmospheric setting and clever use of red herrings. Retro adventure fans often cite its tight writing and multiple possible solutions as reasons it holds up today. With a runtime of 30-40 hours, it balances complexity without overwhelming players.

Storyline

Why has the reclusive Colonel Dijon called his rivalrous relations together? It's a mysterious re-union at his secluded mansion, deep in the bayous of Southern Louisiana! It is the year 1925, and the roaring 20's are well underway. As Laura Bow, young college student, you've been invited to visit the Colonel's isolated estate. Watch as the Colonel announces his intention to bequeath his millions to all present! Immediately, you sense greed and suspicion among the Colonel's relatives and associates. The air becomes thick with anger and betrayal. As the drama unfold you must evade the dangers that await you everywhere, and expose the killer before he or she strikes again! Explore the gloomy estate in an attempt to discover who is murdering the Colonel's guests, and why...