Scrabble is one of the most classic word games of all time. Sometimes, though, you're in the mood for something new. These word games like Scrabble are ideal for those who love to let their vocabulary shine! Many of these top suggestions came from our Underdog Games community on Facebook. Be sure to follow us—we’d love to have your ideas as well.
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Illiterati
We're jumping the gun a little on this one, since it won't be out until spring 2023, but it looks like so much fun! Players work cooperatively, using their letters to spell words that match clues. At the end of each round, an Illiterati villain attacks! Players may lose points or letters, so work quickly to fill your book before the Illiterati destroy your dreams. Even young kids can get in on the fun, with games taking about 40 minutes. Pre-order this word game now, because we think it's going to be amazing! (1-5 players, ages 7+)
Quiddler
The rules of this game are so simple. In each round, players must arrange their cards to spell one or more words, trying to use up all their letter cards. Round by round, you receive more cards (from 3 up to 10), making it a little harder each time. Any cards leftover count against you, so plan wisely! (1-8 players, ages 8+)
A Little Wordy
This two-player game is by the folks who made Exploding Kittens, so it's a lot of quirky fun. Each player draws tiles and comes up with their own secret word. Turn by turn, they attempt to narrow down the options and guess each other's word, using clue cards that provide help like the first letter, last letter, and so on. Each clue will cost you, though, so use them wisely, because the winner of each round is the one with the fewest points, not the one who guesses the word first. This word game is quick and fun, and perfect for kids and adults alike. (2 players, ages 10+)
Dabble
Here's another one with simple rules: draw 20 tiles and be the first to spell 2, 3, 4, and 5 letter words with them. You can modify the rules to fit your family, like eliminating the timer or choosing not to score the words. It's definitely a challenge, but the best word games are! (2-4 players, ages 8+)
Word on the Street
This is a great game for both two players or teams. You race to come up with words that fit into specific category cards. The first person or team to claim eight letter tiles wins. It’s simple to learn and quick to play. Plus, it’s a good way to build vocabulary for kids. (2 players, ages 10+)
Just One
This game challenges you to discover mystery words from clues given by fellow players. There’s a catch though—duplicate clues cancel one another out, so you have to be creative. We love this one as a party game, and the quick 20-minute playtime really keeps things moving. (3-7 players, ages 8+)
Bananagrams
This fast-paced word game is a family favorite, especially for traveling or when you’re tight on space. You’re racing against other places to build words and be the first to use all your letters. Everything fits in the colorful little banana, making it a perfect travel game. (1-8 players, ages 7+)
Boggle
Boggle has been around since the 1970s, and it’s still a favorite for many of us who love words. Essentially, it’s a creative take on word searches. Shake up the letters, and then see how many words you can spot before the time is up. You are competing against other players, so you want to find words that others won’t see. You could even play solo and try to beat your own score. Tip—regular Boggle is fine but Big Boggle is better! (1+ players, ages 8+)
Codenames
You’re not spelling or building words with Codenames, but it still deserves a nod on this list. Players compete with spymasters, giving one-word clues pointing to multiple words on the board. All the while, you’re trying to avoid the assassin. It’s perfect for wannabe spies and those who like a good mystery. (2-8 players, ages 10+)
Upwords
With Upwords, you can (and want) to stack your letters from one word to the next. It’s probably the most like Scrabble on this list, allowing you to score in even more ways. It’s a great way to work on developing vocabulary, spelling, and just being creative. (2-4 players, ages 8+)
Paperback
This game is a mix of word-building and deck-building. With each hand, you try to form new words and acquire more powerful letters. You’ll also earn bonus opportunities along the way like double letter scores or drawing more cards. It really stretches your strategy skills while embracing a love of books. (2-5 players, ages 8+)
Blank Slate
This is like the modern day version of the classic Match Game. You try to predict what others are thinking and what they’ll say by writing a word that completes a phrase on a small dry erase board. You score points for matching with others, so you want to choose your answer carefully. (3-8 players, ages 8+)
Love these recommendations? Check out the Best Solo Board Games for Competing Against Yourself!
