A new roguelike video game centered around spelling has hit the market, and as a self-proclaimed word nerd, I wholeheartedly approve.
As someone who still enjoys Words with Friends in 2025, I was excited when my coworker shared the news about Word Play. He described it as a blend of Scrabble and Balatro, so I had to try it. At just $7, the experience has been worth every penny.
If you’re familiar with Scrabble, Word Play will feel like home. For newcomers, the premise is straightforward: create words using 16 letters drawn from your tile bag. Each word you spell uses up those letters, which are then replaced. Scoring is based on letter rarity, so Xs and Js are worth more than common letters like As and Rs.
That’s just the surface of Word Play. Each session consists of several rounds where you need to meet a specific point target within a limited number of tries, referred to as a “Play.” After completing a round, your tile bag resets and you gain more Plays. Since it’s a roguelike game, it incorporates deckbuilding mechanics—your deck being your tile bag—which lets you acquire new letters and unique tiles.
There are three primary methods to enhance your tiles and scoring potential: Modifiers, Upgrades, and Gifts. Modifiers affect how points are scored and remain with you throughout your run unless you sell them. Upgrades enhance tiles, potentially doubling their point value. Lastly, Gifts are optional rewards, like extra Refreshes that allow you to swap letters.
Once you finish a round, you can choose from randomly generated rewards related to the three upgrade types. You can sacrifice a Play for a re-roll or skip rewards entirely to gain more Refreshes. If a Modifier negatively impacts your run, selling it for a better option is always an option.
Word Play usually retails for $8 (approximately €7.50), making it a decent investment for anyone who enjoys word games with high replayability. Currently on sale for $7 (about €6.50), this game is a must-try for fellow spelling aficionados and roguelike enthusiasts alike.
What makes Word Play unique compared to other word games?
Word Play stands out by combining word formation with roguelike mechanics, introducing strategic elements like tile upgrades and modifiers, which add depth to traditional gameplay.
Can you play Word Play with friends?
Currently, Word Play features a single-player mode focusing on personal skill development rather than multiplayer interactions.
What platforms is Word Play available on?
As of now, you can purchase Word Play on Steam, making it accessible for PC gamers.
Is Word Play worth the investment?
If you enjoy word games that challenge your vocabulary while incorporating strategic gameplay, Word Play is well worth the investment.
In conclusion, if you love word games and roguelikes, don’t miss out on trying Word Play. Dive into this engaging game and discover countless hours of fun. For more insights into the gaming world, check out Moyens I/O.