The Lost Files of Sherlock Holmes: The Case of the Serrated Scalpel (PC) Playthrough
4Playthrough of Mythos Software/Electronic Arts' 1992 point-and-click adventure game for the MS-DOS, The Lost Files of Sherlock Holmes: The Case of the Serrated Scalpel.
The Lost Files of Sherlock Holmes: The Case of the Serrated Scalpel is a point-and-click adventure game released for MS-DOS in 1992, developed by Mythos Software and published by Electronic Arts. It places players in the role of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes, aided by his loyal companion Dr. John Watson, as they investigate a gruesome murder in Victorian London. The game opens with the discovery of an actress brutally murdered behind a theater, and what initially appears to be a straightforward crime of passion soon unravels into a complex web of intrigue, deception, and dark secrets lurking in the city’s fog-filled streets.
The game is notable for its detailed pixel art graphics that capture the atmospheric charm of 19th-century London, complete with cobblestone streets, gaslit alleys, and richly decorated interiors. Players explore a wide range of locations including theaters, gentlemen’s clubs, chemist shops, opium dens, and crime scenes, all brought to life with meticulous background art and evocative sound effects. Conversations with a diverse cast of characters are key to progressing through the story, and the game uses a traditional dialogue system where players choose from different lines of inquiry, gathering clues and piecing together the evidence.
Gameplay revolves around thorough investigation, combining inventory items, analyzing clues, and logical deduction. The puzzles are grounded in realistic detective work, requiring players to apply Holmes’s keen observational skills rather than relying on obscure or fantastical solutions. There is a strong emphasis on narrative and character interaction, with the player carefully questioning suspects, witnesses, and experts to uncover motivations and hidden connections. The pacing is deliberate, encouraging players to explore every detail and fully immerse themselves in the story rather than rushing through tasks.
One of the game’s standout features is its voice-acted CD-ROM version, which was a rarity for the time and added a cinematic feel to the experience. Even without the voiceovers, the game’s sharp writing, witty exchanges, and attention to period detail create a convincing and engaging mystery. The soundtrack enhances the atmosphere, using subtle, moody compositions that complement the suspenseful investigation. The Lost Files of Sherlock Holmes: The Case of the Serrated Scalpel remains fondly remembered by adventure game fans for its faithful recreation of Conan Doyle’s world, its clever mystery, and its blend of rich storytelling with classic detective gameplay.