WordsWorth HD is a twist on any classic word game that can be fun for the whole family.  Like most word games, command of the English language is a must.  However, this is a good way to discover new words to add to your vocabulary or remember for future Scrabble games.

The ‘game’ is set within a beehive and it is your task to make as many words as possible by selecting letters that are touching one another.  This may sound intimidating, but after you get a handle on the controls, you will be spelling out words that you never knew existed.  Unlike classic word searches, the letters you choose do not have to follow any pattern.  As long as your letters are touching on at least one side, you can continue the word. The interface is smooth and on the iPad, you can see the letters in bright and vibrant high definition. 

There are three modes to choose from that are all based on the same instructions.  The first is ‘classic mode’ where the entire board is filled with random letters.  As you create words, the letters disappear and new ones fall into place.  There is no timer and it is quite relaxing to just sit back and start finding words.  The second mode is ‘timed’ that is very similar to classic only there’s a little pressure from the timer.  You complete levels by making words, but if the timer expires, the game ends. Finally, there is ‘tumble’ mode.  In this mode, the game begins with just a row of letters at the bottom and letters slowly fall from the top.  The only way to get rid of tiles is to make words and if the tiles touch the top, the game is over.

During each game, your completed words along with the point value for each word played are displayed on the left side of the board.  I really liked this because it is like on ongoing ‘trophy case’ which made me feel proud of the words I found.  There is also the inclusion of special tiles that add a subtle twist to the game. 

Once you feel comfortable with the controls and the game mechanics, you can take your game to the next level and challenge others.  WordsWorth does allow multiplayer via Bluetooth and Wifi, but there is no pass and play option.  I found this a little disappointing for families that have only one iPad and want to play head to head.  However, if you do have someone to play with, it is very fun and the game elevates to a new level.  Both players share the same board and take turns making words.  This is where those special tiles and sub goals really start to become part of the strategy.  Rather than just focusing on your current word, you are caught thinking ahead at what your opponent might be thinking.  It adds that extra element to an already successful formula.  You can play with random opponents, but I found that to be a little unreliable in terms of functionality.

The main drawbacks of the game are more of a warning for unsupervised children.  There is an un-moderated chat function that is available during play.  There is also full integration with social networks such as Facebook and Twitter which if properly watched can be a good way to find friends who are playing.  Since the game does require finding words, the younger crowd may have trouble figuring things out.  However, given the relaxed nature of the classic single player mode, it might be a nice way of allowing kids to discover new words.  On top of that, WordsWorth will be a hit for parents and even grandparents.

Despite these minor shortcomings, I have nothing but praise for WordsWorth HD.



- Michael Stroud, Executive Editor - Apps