Children play as Harry, Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Luna, or Neville to discover who did it, what spell or object was used, and where the attack took place. Fans of Harry Potter will recognize the Owlery, the Trophy Room, and other locations in the Wizarding World on the Hogwarts game board.

Players can uncover secret passages, doors that may or may not be accessible, or the appearance of the Dark Mark. Move from location to location in Hogwarts and narrow down the possibilities as other players show their cards. If someone believes they have solved the case, they go to Dumbledore's office to make an accusation. A correct accusation wins the game!