Josh Wardle’s “Parseword” Follows “Wordle” With a New Puzzle Challenge

Josh Wardle, the Welsh software engineer best known as the creator of the viral word game Wordle, has released a new game called Parseword. After selling Wordle to The New York Times for a price in the low seven figures in January 2022 , Wardle’s latest offering taps into the mechanics of cryptic crosswords.

How Does “Parseword” Work?

Like Wordle, Parseword offers one puzzle per day. However, instead of simply guessing a five-letter word, players must decipher clues that require manipulating words through synonyms, reversals, homophones, or combinations with other words. A tutorial is available to facilitate players understand the game’s mechanics, and hints are also provided.

Inspiration and Collaboration

Wardle was inspired to create Parseword after hearing The Last of Us showrunner Craig Mazin discuss the logic behind cryptic crosswords on a podcast. He collaborated with two former Reddit colleagues, Chris Dary and Matt Lee, on the new game. They secured permission to use clues from long-time cryptic constructors Emily Cox and Henry Rathvon.

A Different Challenge Than “Wordle”

Early impressions suggest Parseword is more challenging and less accessible than Wordle. Although Wordle achieved widespread popularity, Parseword appears to be geared toward those familiar with cryptic crosswords, potentially appealing to readers of publications like The New Yorker.

The Rise of Daily Puzzle Games

Wordle’s success sparked a surge in daily puzzle games. Numerous clones and variations have emerged, including Quordle, Bracket City, Framed, and games from The New York Times such as Connections, Strands, and Pips. Catfishing, which challenges players to guess Wikipedia article subjects based on their categories, has also gained popularity. However, some favorites, like Heardle, are no longer available.

About Josh Wardle

Josh Wardle is a Welsh software engineer, and artist. He developed Wordle and the collaborative project r/place for Reddit. He was named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2022 . Wardle currently resides in Brooklyn, New York.