Help and game guide

AcrossWord frequently asked questions

Learn how the daily overlapping word puzzle works, compare Classic and Deluxe, understand Checks and Hints, and find the right archive access for you.

Playing AcrossWord

What is an AcrossWord puzzle?

AcrossWord is a daily online word game featuring a single row of 24 letters. Players solve eight crossword-style clues to find overlapping words that fit perfectly into the row.

A puzzle is complete when all eight words are correct.

How do overlapping words work in AcrossWord?

Every word shares one or more letters with the word next to it. The ending letters of one answer form the starting letters of the next, so solving one word can help reveal a neighbouring answer.

What is the difference between Classic and Deluxe mode?

Classic displays number markers showing the exact grid position where each word starts, making it a natural place to begin.

Deluxe hides those position markers for a more complex challenge. Choose your mode before playing; you can switch from Deluxe back to Classic during a puzzle.

Do hints hurt my AcrossWord score?

Hints are free and unlimited. Each use is recorded in your result, making the number of Hints a personal challenge rather than a limit.

Challenge yourself to complete all eight words with as few Hints as possible, then share your result with friends.

How does the Check feature work?

Check validates the words currently entered. Any completely correct words permanently lock into the puzzle and turn gold. Every use is tracked in your game result.

Is AcrossWord free to play?

Yes. Anyone can play today’s AcrossWord puzzle for free in a mobile, tablet, or desktop browser without downloading an app.

Play today’s free puzzle.

Accounts and archive access

Can I play previous AcrossWord puzzles?

Guests can play today’s daily puzzle for free.

Registered users can play the last seven official puzzle dates.

Subscribers can access the full Classic archive.

Open the puzzle archive.

What do I get for creating a free AcrossWord account?

A free account saves your progress and gives you a personal player record with cumulative statistics, active daily streaks, recent games, and earned honours.

Create a free account.

What are the benefits of an AcrossWord subscription?

Subscribers receive full Classic archive access, detailed puzzle comparison statistics, subscriber extras, and access to the puzzle submission workflow.

View AcrossWord subscription options.

Ready to solve today’s puzzle?

Eight crossword-style clues. One overlapping row. A new challenge every day.

Play AcrossWord