Developer Isaac MENARD has released "Ghost in the SQL Data," a mystery deduction game that makes use of SQL, on PC (Steam).
Use SQL to gather data and turn it into evidence. A mystery adventure where you can learn SQL
This game is a mystery adventure in which you use SQL, a database query language, to uncover the truth behind a crime.
The first case begins with a single puzzling record: someone reported a fire 14 minutes before it actually broke out. Players must use working SQL queries to prove this contradiction.
There are no traditional mystery game elements such as dialogue choices or lock-picking. You interrogate the evidence by writing code, and the game returns an answer.
The SQL (Structured Query Language) featured in this game is a language used to retrieve data from “databases,” which are used to store computer data. It is considered a “must-know” language for systems engineers and programmers and is widely used in everything from small-scale systems to massive-scale services.
For example, in the tutorial, you’ll learn basic SQL syntax—such as “SELECT ~ FROM ~ WHERE ~”—by retrieving data for a specific day from a total of 2,400 incident reports.
You can even use SQL to extract a specific phone number from a phone directory—this is another instance where the WHERE clause comes into play.
You’ll also be asked to extract data that contradicts a suspect’s testimony in order to refute it. Since the game is designed to let you learn SQL as you play, you’ll be able to pick up the language while enjoying a mystery adventure.
"Ghost in the SQL Data" is currently available for PC (Steam). It is priced at 1,350 yen, but until November 13, you can purchase it for 1,215 yen—a 10% discount.
