If you enjoy Wordle but want something a little more open, Boggle and Crosswordle are both worth trying. They use a letter grid instead of hidden words, and they each have their own fun twist on the format.

Boggle: Find as Many Words as You Can

Boggle started as a board game back in the 1970s. You get a grid of letters, a timer, and the goal is to find as many words as you can before time runs out. You connect letters that are next to each other, in any direction, to spell words. Longer words are worth more points, so finding a big one can really change your score.

The online version works the same way, but you get a fresh puzzle every day and the game checks your words for you instantly. You also keep a running score over time, which makes it pretty satisfying to come back to.

There are three grid sizes to pick from. The 3x3 is a quick five-minute game, great if you just want something fast. The 4x4 is the classic version most people know. The 5x5 is a real challenge and will keep you busy for a while, even if you think you are good at the smaller grids.

Tips: Start by looking for word endings like ING, ED, ER, and EST, then see if you can add letters in front to make longer words. You will often find two or three extra words this way that you would have missed otherwise. Letters like Q, X, and Z are tricky in Boggle. There are words for them, but they are rare, so do not spend too long on those tiles.

Crosswordle: Boggle With a Crossword Added

Crosswordle uses the same kind of letter grid as Boggle, but it adds a crossword on top. Instead of finding any words you like, you need to fill in specific spots in a crossword pattern. The catch is that some squares are shared between two words, so both words have to fit at the same time.

You might spot a word right away and feel good about it, but then realize it does not fit the slot you need. So you keep looking for one that works in the right place. It sounds small, but it really changes how the game feels. Once it clicks, it is hard to stop.

If you like Boggle and want something a little more challenging, Crosswordle is a natural step up. It uses the same skills but asks you to think ahead a bit more.

Where to Start

New to grid word games? Start with the 3x3 Boggle. It takes less than five minutes and gives you a good feel for how things work. Already comfortable with Boggle? Give Crosswordle a try. It is the same idea with an extra layer that makes it a lot more interesting.

Both are free, no account needed, and there is a new puzzle every day.