SQL Case Files
Crack detective cases by querying a crime database with real SQL.
What is SQL Case Files?
Why SQL Case Files is on Unfound
Its maker's post was the #17 top post of the past year on r/WebGames, a rare showing for an educational game, and it now spans ten seasons of cases.
✓ Passes the Unfound bar50 upvotes on RedditWhat's the bar?
What players say
Highlights
- Real SQL against an in-browser SQLite database
- Ten seasons, from SELECT basics to window functions
- No account; works offline after loading
Keep in mind
- You'll be typing SQL, so it's a learning tool as much as a game
- Best with a physical keyboard
About SQL Case Files
You start with nothing more than a detective name, open a case file and query its tables until the story falls into place. Each case takes a few minutes, and the database runs locally in your browser with SQLite WebAssembly, so it works offline once loaded and needs no account.
The seasons build steadily, from petty theft in Rookie Files through payroll fraud, vendor schemes and ghost accounts to The Mastermind, teaching filtering, JOINs, aggregation, subqueries, CTEs and window functions along the way. It's ideal for students, analysts and developers who want SQL practice that feels like detective work.
SQL Case Files FAQ
Is SQL Case Files free?
Yes. It's free in the browser with no account; you only enter a detective name to start.
Do I need to know SQL to play SQL Case Files?
No. The first season starts with basic queries, and later seasons introduce JOINs, aggregation, subqueries, CTEs and window functions.
Does SQL Case Files work offline?
Its maker says it runs entirely in the browser using SQLite WebAssembly and works offline after the first load.
