The Fascinating History of Crossword Puzzles: A Must-Read for Online Gamers

Crossword puzzles are one of the longest standing brain teasers of our generation. Whether you find them on the back of your daily newspaper, or via an app on your phone, there are so many ways to access crossword puzzles. But, what do you know about the history of crossword puzzles and how they blossomed into existence?

Let’s delve into the origins of the crossword puzzles, some of the most popular strategies and why they’re great for maintaining good health for years to come.

1. Evolution of Crossword Games

The earliest crossword puzzle was created by a Liverpool, England journalist called Arthur Wynne, but publications of crosswords didn’t begin until 1916 in the Pittsburgh Press. In the 1920’s crosswords became a key feature of comic strips, and ten years later the standardized structure as we know it today was adopted. The cryptic clues of a crossword puzzle proved to be a popular challenge, and in the 90’s crossword puzzles even went digital.

2. Popular Crossword Themes

It was in the 90’s that themed crossword puzzles really came into the forefront. Players would need to complete the words according to specific subject matters such as, nature, science, literature, television, fashion or food.

3. Benefits of Solving Puzzles

If you’re hoping to take care of your brain health, studies have shown that crossword puzzles can help to improve memory, education and overall vocabulary. Crossword puzzles can also help to improve cognitive function, and even slow down the shrinking of the brain. If you’re keen to learn more about a specific subject area, crosswords can also enhance learning to, from business to biology!

4. Crossword Strategies for Success

Every player will have their own strategy for solving a crossword puzzle, but some of the main strategies for success include:

-Start with the easier clues first

-Stay on track with the theme

-Fill in the blanks after a few words are in place

-Be open minded about the word options

-Take a break and come back when you’re feeling refreshed

-When in doubt, have a guess!

5. Crossword Challenges and Variations

Many crossword enthusiasts like the idea of playing against an opponent when completing their puzzles. A crossword challenge is when letters are scratched off to reveal each letter in a crossword puzzle. You and your opponent work against each other to complete the words and win the game.

There are also numerous variants such as anagrams, hidden words, cryptic clues, abbreviations and double definition crosswords to add an extra element of challenge for the player!

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are many fascinating features of crossword puzzles that many players may not already be aware of. From the evolution of newspaper crosswords, to digital puzzles there is so much fun to be had with each one you play!

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