Calling All Word Lovers!

December 16, 2011

The game SCRABBLE has been around since 1948, and it’s come a long way from being a simple board game. Not only can free online versions be found on the web, but iPads and iPhones make it possible to play a game anytime, anywhere. 

Recently, a famous actor’s addiction to his Words With Friends cell phone application even got him kicked off of an airplane. I’m sure creator Alfred Mosher Butts had no idea that his little game would become such a worldwide phenomenon when he invented it over half a century ago.

My addiction to the online version of SCRABBLE has grown over the past few months, simply because it’s an easy way to pass the time. I log onto the website for a free game, and I can play against other SCRABBLE lovers or a computer on a virtual game board. I'm able to pick my own skill level: easy, intermediate, or hard. I’m not embarrassed to admit that even on ‘easy’ mode, I still get taken by better players on a daily basis. 

The online version is much better for novice players such as me, who might want more practice before competing with experienced enthusiasts. It features a compiled list of all two letter words allowed in the game, you can get hints for higher scoring words, and it will even let you know if the word you are playing actually exists! Many SCRABBLE lovers might find this method of playing less than impressive, but I think it’s great for someone who wants to enjoy the game but may not have the time or skill to play a real board game. Or, in my case, have another player on hand to play with them. 

I admit that I miss the days in college of sitting around the coffeehouse with friends, a SCRABBLE board between us. However, with innovative technology, I’ve found a new way to play and new players to compete against (even if it is just a computer). And every now and then, I still break out the old wooden board and play with friends. There’s nothing like a word game to make a Saturday night more enjoyable for a nerd like me!

If you are interested in playing SCRABBLE online, check out POGO.com for a free version. Or, why not check out a book on the subject?

Jamie C.
Platte City Branch