Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?

Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? presents a geographical pursuit structured around a criminal investigation. The player works for the A.C.M.E. Detective Agency, which opposes the treasure-stealing organization V.I.L.E. led by Carmen Sandiego.

Gameplay involves a dual investigative process across multiple countries. To advance, the player must both track a thief's international movements and correctly identify the suspect from a roster of known associates. Identifying the culprit requires matching witness descriptions to dossier entries containing personal characteristics.

Each case begins at the scene of a theft, where gathering clues from witnesses points toward the next destination. Travel options are restricted to a few available flights from each location. A countdown timer makes the investigation challenging, as the player must successfully trace the criminal's path before time expires. A legal warrant, issued only after sufficient suspect details are confirmed, is required to make an arrest upon finally locating the fugitive.

Successfully apprehending members of V.I.L.E. gradually reveals more of the organization, with the ultimate objective being to capture Carmen Sandiego herself.