Games World of Puzzles May 2022

The American naturalist Edwin Way Teale once wrote, “The world’s favorite season is the spring. All things seem possible in May.” And we here at GAMES WORLD OF PUZZLES agree. So grab this May issue and tackle a new challenge—whether it be a puzzle you haven’t attempted before or a game you’re inspired to try.
As always, there’s plenty in these pages to help you accomplish that goal. If cryptic crosswords are your challenge of choice, turn to page 33 for the seventh installment of Andrew Parr’s “Cryptic Classroom.” This month, Parr covers deletions, reversals, and the “& lit.” clue. The going gets a little tough here, but we’re confident that you will persevere in your quest to conquer the cryptic crosswords that regularly appear in this magazine. If you get good enough, even extra-tricky puzzles like Bob Stigger’s “Let’s Play 2” (page 62) will be within your grasp!
Next, turn your attention to Jonathan Schmalzbach’s feature article, “The Mystery League.” The Mystery League is a Chicago-based team of creative puzzlemakers headed up by Sandor Weisz. In the article, you’ll learn all about the live and remote puzzle hunts staged by Weisz and the Mystery League. And the best part is that you don’t need to drop everything and move to the Windy City to enjoy their creations. Find out more starting on page 34.
Speaking of innovative puzzles, the online game Wordle became a runaway hit earlier this year. In his “Game On!” column, Raymond Simon explores the phenomenon. If Wordle has become a part of your daily routine, turn to page 48 to learn more about it.
This month, our Pencilwise section features a special treat: a five-page “Whiteout!” mini puzzle series by regular contributor Christopher Magan. Starting on page 49, you can read the backstory of this “spin-off” puzzle type and learn what inspired Magan to create it. Then try your hand at the six puzzles that follow.
Other Pencilwise highlights include “Cross-Town Rebus” (page 29), an original crossword variant by Todd Kreisman that will test your drawing skills, and “Tile and Error” (page 30) a logical challenge by Michael Rios.
So sharpen your pencil, put on your thinking cap, and start puzzling!