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Scrabble
November 19, 2001
I can’t say that I’ve ever been much of a Scrabble nut, but that could be due to the fact that my family seems to know every two-letter word in the book, and they never had any problems using up all of their “Q” “V” “X” and “Y” letter tiles. Not that I don’t like word games mind you, but there’s something about knowing you’ll lose before the game ever starts that seems terribly defeating.Enter Scrabble for Palm OS, and I’m in heaven! It has been beautifully transferred to the handheld platform, with a very readable game board and easy to use interface. To start a new game simply tap the silkscreen Menu button and then select “New Game.” You’ll be given the option to choose human or Palm OS opponents, type in their names, and select whether you want a “friendly” or “tournament-style” game. You can also enable the option to play by beaming, which is a lot of fun if you have any friends who also have a licensed copy of Scrabble on their Palm OS handhelds. Once you hit OK, you’re ready to play!
Gameplay is quite challenging, even at the novice level. That’s a good thing, as seeing the computer player rack up those points will keep you on your toes and encourage you to think up bigger and better scoring words to add on those points. The rules are exactly the same as in the stanard board game edition, with the different colored squares serving as double or triple letter or word scoring bonus areas. Gameplay is quite simple- you just tap the letter tile from your tray that you want to use, then tap where you want to place it on the board. You can even have the Palm suggest moves to you if you’re stumped. Full instructions are also included, in case you haven’t played Scrabble before.
If you have any interest in word games, or just want to hone your skills before the holidays arrive and you go home and surprise your family, you need to check out Scrabble for Palm OS devices. Scrabble provides a very nice change from the usual shoot ‘em up and puzzle games normally available for the Palm OS. My skills have definitely improved, and I had a lot of fun at the same time. I know that I can’t wait to go home and challenge my mom to a game— I just might beat her this time! Scrabble is available from the Handmark web site for $29.99, or you might be able to pick up the retail edition at your favorite office or electronics store. You can also get a special two-license pack for only $49.99, so that you and a friend can play via infrared. Now I gotta get back to my game… anyone know of a word that includes the letters “P” “W” “X” “N” “R” and no vowels?
PocketGoddess rating for Scrabble: 
