Deadline is a pioneering interactive fiction game released in 1982, renowned for its engaging murder mystery narrative. Players assume the role of a detective investigating the suspicious death of industrialist Marshall Robner at his estate. The game employs a text-based interface, immersing players in a richly detailed story filled with intriguing characters and plot twists. As the detective, players must gather clues, interrogate suspects, and piece together evidence to uncover the truth behind Robner's demise.

The gameplay is time-sensitive, giving players twelve hours to solve the case before it is closed. With its innovative use of the ZIL programming language, Deadline was easily adaptable across various platforms, making it accessible to a wide audience. The combination of compelling storytelling and challenging puzzles makes Deadline a significant title in the puzzle game genre, offering players a captivating experience that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.