We played this with 11 people,and a few days before the party we randomly pulled people's name from a hat for the chcarcters. We decided last minute we were having a Murder Mystery party but would recommend letting your guests know in advance for their costumes. That said, everyone made an effort and it was great seeing everyone in costume-especially Otto Von Pinklewurst! We were outnumbered boys to girls so one of the guests played a woman, which led to a lot of Madame/Monsieur? jokes on the night. The whole night was hilarious and I haven't laughed so much in ages. It was our first Murder Mystery party and we'd definately do it again. If there are any shrinking violets just provide lots of wine and they'll soon get into the swing of things. It's also best if you don't take it too seriously, we were all a bit confused at some points but just go with it, and the more terrible the accent, the better!