Cluehound
Project Overview
Cluehound is an innovative illustrated narrative puzzle magazine created by a husband-and-wife team. The product offers an interactive storytelling experience focused on solving enigmas, designed to be completed in short sessions. Unlike traditional escape games, this magazine provides a linear adventure where solving puzzles (e.g., “whose fingerprints are on the gun”) advances the narrative.
Technical Implementation
The business operates through a custom lightweight online store built with minimal JavaScript, Node.js backend, and Stripe for payments. They’ve intentionally disabled cookies, demonstrating a privacy-conscious approach. The current website development involves manual editing, with future plans to incorporate a templating language to streamline content management.
Business Challenges
The project faces two primary challenges:
- Discoverability: The unique product doesn’t fit traditional game shop formats, though Meta ads and convention demonstrations have been effective.
- Shipping Logistics: Current operations involve manual packaging and shipping from their home, with monthly profits around $500. They’re exploring distribution partnerships and potential warehouse solutions to optimize their fulfillment process.
Community Response
Early community feedback has been positive, with users expressing interest in the magazine as an engaging activity for children during travel. Nostalgic comparisons to “choose your own adventure” books and similar puzzle-narrative concepts have been drawn, indicating potential market resonance.
Notable Insights
The creators have built a hands-on business that allows them creative control and personal satisfaction, balancing technical skills with storytelling and puzzle design. Their approach emphasizes simplicity, user experience, and gradual business growth.