Report updated Apr 2, 2026
Telling Lies
v1.0.4Fans of narrative-driven mystery games, investigative thrillers, and interactive cinema who enjoy deep, puzzle-solving experiences.
What Is Telling Lies?
Launched Aug 23, 2019
Updated Aug 2019
What does it look like?
What are the key features?
Players piece together a narrative by exploring a non-linear database of video clips rather than following a set path.
Users interact with an simulated NSA database by typing search terms to uncover relevant video evidence.
High-production value storytelling featuring professional actors and directed by industry-recognized creators.
The core mechanic involves the player deciding the truth based on their interpretation of fragmented evidence.
What do users think? iIndependent intel reports to help builders create better apps or enhance existing ones. Still in beta, accuracy and relevancy get better every day. For informational purposes only.
Gathering public signals...
Sentiment analysis will be available once enough user reviews are collected.
How is it ranked?
| Chart | Rank | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Paid | #21 | ▲53 |
What are the pros and cons?
Pros
- High-production value with professional actors and direction
- Unique, immersive search-based gameplay mechanic
- Strong brand reputation for premium indie titles
Cons
- Limited replayability
- Lack of social media presence
- Small review sample size
What is the market outlook?
Growth Opportunities
- Expansion into subscription-based gaming platforms
- Development of episodic content to increase LTV
- Targeted influencer marketing campaigns
Market Threats
- Market saturation from newer FMV titles like IMMORTALITY
- Mobile-native interactive platforms providing more frequent updates
- High barrier to entry for new players due to premium pricing
Who competes with Telling Lies?
The Nemesis
Her Story
Sam Barlow
The foundational title of the FMV investigative sub-genre that uses the exact same database-search mechanic.
Contenders
SIMULACRA
Kaigan Games OÜ
A direct competitor in the 'found phone/database' mystery genre where players investigate digital evidence to solve a disappearance.
SIMULACRA 3
Kaigan Games OÜ
Expands on the found-phone investigative mechanics with higher production values and a more complex narrative structure.
Same Space
The Room
★4.8 (7K)Fireproof Studios Limited
A high-quality puzzle-mystery game that appeals to the same audience looking for deep, atmospheric, and intellectual gameplay.
Rusty Lake Hotel
Rusty Lake
Offers a surreal, non-linear narrative puzzle experience that attracts players who enjoy piecing together cryptic stories.
New Kids on the Block
IMMORTALITY
★3.0 (172)Netflix, Inc.
The latest evolution of the FMV investigative genre, pushing the boundaries of non-linear narrative discovery.
What are the key takeaways?
Telling Lies is a divisive games app that is a paid app. With a 3.9/5 rating from 106 reviews, it receives mixed feedback from users.
Best for: Fans of narrative-driven mystery games, investigative thrillers, and interactive cinema who enjoy deep, puzzle-solving experiences.
How much does it cost?
Model: paid
Premium upfront pricing model typical of high-quality indie narrative games, avoiding microtransactions or ads to maintain immersion.
iOS Version
1.0.4
Release Date
Aug 23, 2019
iOS Price
$6.99