Introduction
Word games are among the most popular forms of entertainment for a reason: they’re fun! However, word games are so much more than just an exciting pastime. Word games are an incredibly effective way to learn new words and improve language skills. They also offer a wealth of benefits that may not be quite as obvious, positively impacting the brain in a number of ways. If you’re wondering how you can give your mind a workout, enjoy time with your friends, and expand your vocabulary all at the same time, it might be time to play some online word games.
Table of Contents
Cognitive & Mental Benefits of Playing Word Games Online
Playing word games online isn’t all fun and games! There are a lot of reasons to play word games that extend far beyond joy and lighthearted fun.
Cognitive and Mental Benefits
Playing word games exercises the mind because it requires a combination of concentration, memory, and strategic abilities. Playing word games can help improve your focus and sharpen your ability to recall information. Perhaps even more importantly, playing word games can boost your mood, the result of dopamine being released every time you play a high-earning word. Solving problems triggers that release, giving you a sense of accomplishment and leaving you feeling happier for the rest of your day.
Vocabulary and Language Skills
Word games are interactive and engaging, which is why they are a great tool to build vocabulary and improve language skills, often without you even realizing it. The key to learning is repetition, and because word games are fun, you’ll be excited to play round after round. Playing with other people will give you the opportunity to be exposed to new words, helping you incorporate them into your own vocabulary.
Social and Entertainment Value
Word games have been around for centuries, and that’s because they’re so much fun to play. The beauty of word games is that you can play them by yourself or with family and friends, giving you hours of enjoyment and entertainment. Online word games allow you to maintain relationships near and far, as you can play with players located anywhere in the world as long as they have an internet connection.
Healthy Competition
Playing word games offers an opportunity for people to engage in healthy competition. Healthy competition motivates learning and encourages curiosity about new concepts and ideas. Competing in a safe and friendly environment helps build resilience, boosts self-esteem, and can even strengthen goal-setting skills.
The Best Online Word Game Platforms and Apps
Some online word games stand out from the pack, especially when it comes to blending educational, cognitive, and mental benefits with endless opportunities for fun. These are some of the best online word games to expand your vocabulary and deliver plenty of entertainment:
Last Letter First
Last Letter First is a free, easy-to-play online word game designed for players of all ages. The rules of the game are simple: the first player enters a word, and the next player must enter a word that begins with the last letter of the previous player’s word. Last Letter First is available through the Apple App Store, Google Play, and right on your desktop through a web browser.
Wordle
Wordle is a popular word game from the New York Times that gives players six chances to guess a five-letter word. When a player guesses a letter correctly, the color tile turns green. Letters guessed correctly but in the wrong place turn yellow, and incorrect letters are gray. Wordle can be played from a smartphone app or in your web browser.
Words With Friends
For those who are fans of the classic board game, Scrabble, Words With Friends is likely to be a fast favorite. This free word game requires players to build words in a style similar to that of a crossword puzzle. Each letter earns points, and the player with the most points when the letters run out wins.
Multiplayer Word Games to Play with Family and Friends
Word games are the most fun when you play online with family and friends. Playing games together is the best way to make memories, bond, and enjoy time with one another. These are some of the best word games for playing with multiple players:
Last Letter First
Last Letter First is one of the most versatile word games around because it allows you to play by yourself or with friends, for points or just for fun. You can start a game and invite up to nine other players to join you. All you have to do is start a game, then add the player’s email address to send them an invitation to play. If you choose to play for points, Last Letter First keeps score and declares the winner at the end of the game!
Words With Friends
Just like Last Letter First, Words With Friends is a game that allows you to play with multiple players. While games are one on one, you have the option to have several games in motion all at the same time. You can either choose to play with a friend or allow Words With Friends to match you to a random opponent.
Other Multiplayer Word Games
There are numerous other multiplayer word games available online for players of all ages. Some of the most popular multiplayer word games include:
- WordHub
- Hangman
- ScrabbleGo
- Letterpress
- Wordox
- Rackword
In Summary
Playing word games online is a great way to kick back and relax while reaping a wealth of mental, cognitive, and educational benefits all at the same time. The best thing about playing online word games like Last Letter First is that you are learning and growing without ever realizing it’s happening. With each game you’ll learn new words, improve your focus, and engage with your family and friends.
Download Last Letter First or play it directly in your web browser today!
