In recent weeks, a web-based word puzzle calledWordlehas become a popular daily distraction.
For these people, Wordle is captivating.
Previous research can help us understand how our brains respond to word games, and why we love them.
Wordle is a single-player puzzle that combines elements of several games, including Scrabble and Battleship.
It’s free, every week, in your inbox.
Much like chess players, competitive Scrabble players areranked in an international rating systembased on tournament results.
We also found that Scrabble players quickly recognized words without fully processing word meaning.
Does playing lots of Scrabble make you good at anything else?
The answer seems to be no.
We also investigated whetherScrabble expertise protects players from the effects of brain aging.
Again, the answer seems to be no.
Older Scrabble players still show the normal effects of aging, like slower processing speed.
Those changes help you to play Wordle, but probably dont help you with anything else.
Why do some people love puzzles?
Wordle has become a habit for millions, but for others its not appealing.
Some people enjoy puzzles and thinking challenges more than others.
With only one Wordle released per day, everyone is solving the same puzzle.
The online games sharing options also allow us to share our results with others without giving the answer away.
