In the intricate world of Hitman 3, the Dartmoor mission Death in the Family stands out due to its unique murder mystery format. Rather than simply assassinating a target, players are presented with the opportunity to solve the suspicious death of Zachary Carlisle. One of the most satisfying outcomes is accusing the real culprit: Emma Carlisle. However, this path requires exploration, deduction, and specific evidence to unlock. Understanding how to accuse Emma successfully not only adds depth to your experience but also unlocks the ability to complete the mission without violence.
Starting the Investigation in Dartmoor
Taking on the Role of the Detective
To begin the murder mystery route, you must first disguise yourself as the private investigator. When you arrive at the Thornbridge Manor estate, wait near the gate and watch as the real detective arrives. Follow him discreetly and subdue him once he’s isolated, then take his clothes. This grants you access to the house under the guise of solving Zachary’s murder, and the family will treat you accordingly.
Initiating the Murder Mystery
Once inside, you’ll be briefed by Alexa Carlisle, who tasks you with uncovering the truth behind her brother’s death. The murder mystery is optional but provides a compelling way to complete the mission. Instead of eliminating Alexa by traditional means, you can use the investigation’s outcome to your advantage.
Exploring the Manor for Clues
Searching Zachary’s Bedroom
The first step is to investigate the scene of the crime. Zachary’s bedroom contains multiple pieces of evidence:
- The body: Scan it using your camera to determine the cause of death.
- The whisky bottle and glass: Contains poison residue.
- The laptop: Shows Zachary was writing a suicide note.
These findings reveal a staged suicide, which points to foul play. However, to accuse someone convincingly, more evidence is needed.
Interviewing the Family Members
Each suspect in the household has a unique alibi. Speak with them individually and search their rooms for hidden details. Emma Carlisle, in particular, is worth scrutinizing closely. She’s the daughter-in-law of Alexa and has potential motives tied to inheritance and family tensions.
During interviews, take note of inconsistencies or defensiveness. Emma claims to have been with Gregory all evening, but evidence in her room tells a different story.
Investigating Emma’s Room
To build your case against Emma, you must find key pieces of evidence in her quarters. Use your instinct and camera to help detect interactive objects. Here’s what to look for:
- The walking cane: Used to unlock a secret room.
- The greenhouse key: Found near the dresser or on her person if pickpocketed.
- The letter from Emma’s mother: Discusses the use of poison.
This combination of items suggests Emma had both the knowledge and opportunity to commit the murder. The greenhouse, in particular, contains further proof.
Exploring the Greenhouse
Once you have the key, head to the greenhouse located on the manor grounds. Inside, you’ll find a table used for crafting poison. This is a major piece of the puzzle, especially when combined with the poison found in Zachary’s drink. The crafting table shows recent use, implicating someone with access Emma.
Gathering All the Required Evidence
What You Need to Accuse Emma
Before making your accusation, make sure you’ve collected the following:
- Zachary’s autopsy and poison evidence from his bedroom
- Emma’s cane, key, and letter from her room
- The poison crafting setup in the greenhouse
With these in hand, you can confidently confront Alexa with your conclusion. If you accuse the wrong person or don’t have enough proof, the outcome won’t unlock the unique ending.
Making the Accusation
Confronting Alexa Carlisle
Return to Alexa once you’ve completed your investigation. She will ask you to present your findings and name the killer. Choose Emma Carlisle from the dialogue options. If you’ve gathered the right clues, Alexa will believe you and take action on her own terms. This opens up a peaceful resolution to the mission.
Mission Outcome
Once you’ve accused Emma, Alexa will reward you with the location of a case file your primary mission objective. You can then exit the level without assassinating anyone. Alternatively, you may still choose to eliminate Alexa later, but completing the case non-lethally provides a fresh gameplay variation and earns specific challenges.
Tips for Success
Using Instinct and Camera Effectively
The investigation is easier if you make full use of Agent 47’s tools. Use the instinct mode to highlight clues and interactive objects. The camera can scan documents and objects that would otherwise be overlooked. These tools speed up the process and ensure you don’t miss critical evidence.
Be Thorough and Patient
It can be tempting to rush through rooms or rely on surface-level information. However, the true ending requires diligence. Take your time, explore every corner, and follow every thread. Emma’s guilt is well-hidden and takes time to uncover fully.
Pay Attention to Dialogue
The characters in Dartmoor each have distinct personalities and motivations. Listening carefully to their words can help you identify deception or clues. Emma, in particular, may try to redirect suspicion, which is a subtle indicator of guilt.
Why Accusing Emma is Worthwhile
A Unique Mission Experience
Death in the Family is one of the most replayable and immersive levels in Hitman 3, and accusing Emma is one of the best outcomes. It allows you to play as a detective, solve a complex mystery, and complete your mission in a non-violent and stylish manner.
Challenge Unlocks and Achievements
By correctly accusing Emma Carlisle, you unlock specific challenges tied to the murder mystery. These contribute to mastery progress for the Dartmoor location and often come with experience boosts or unlocks for new gear and starting locations.
Alternate Approach to Assassination
While Hitman games are known for creative assassinations, they’re also about strategy. The Emma accusation route offers an elegant, cerebral solution. It’s a testament to the game’s depth and variety in mission design.
Accusing Emma Carlisle in Hitman 3’s Dartmoor mission is a rewarding path that challenges your investigative skills and attention to detail. From collecting hidden clues to confronting suspects and navigating family drama, this route showcases the game’s narrative and mechanical flexibility. If done correctly, it allows you to complete the mission peacefully, using intelligence rather than brute force. For players who enjoy immersive storytelling and alternative approaches to objectives, uncovering the truth and bringing Emma to justice is a satisfying and memorable experience.