Same Circles

Words become more interesting when they meet.

Play with words. Show people the way you found through. Notice what someone else discovered.

For people who enjoy not only solving puzzles, but seeing what different minds do with them.

Today’s Invitation

Circular Same Circles word puzzle
The Same Circles Sandbox. Build words and phrases inside a circle. New words can begin, end, and cross through the letters and spaces already there. When you finish, share your circle and see which words other people notice. Find your way through →

Something Someone Noticed

Look closely at a circle.

Choose two words from this circle that stand out to you.

Look closely at this circle →

This isn’t live yet — once players start sharing circles and noticing each other’s words, a real one will appear here.

Two Ways to Take Part

Find a way through

Play a challenge and make a circle that carries your choices. Share it when it feels like yours.

Choose a challenge →

Notice someone’s way through

Look closely. Choose the words that stand out, compare approaches or say what surprised you.

Start Here

Play a challenge

Find your own way through a shared direction.

Why Same Circles exists

Read the Word Puzzle Manifesto and join the conversation.

Read and Respond

Essay

Introductions and Why Word Puzzles Are Important

Two years ago, I had an idea for a round word puzzle structure where words could curve around and cross each other. Because I want to build something that carries real meaning, I can’t do it in a vacuum — that’s why I’ve invited you here to help.

Say hello back. Who are you? What do you think?

Read and join the discussion →

Puzzles Can Be a Way to Meet

Whose mind are you curious about?

Send someone a challenge. Play separately, then come back and see what each of you did differently.

Choose something to play together →

For Puzzle Makers and Curious Players

The puzzle maker’s library

Articles, an annotated bibliography and a game-design dictionary for understanding what puzzles ask us to do.

Browse the resources →

Stay in the Circle

Occasional letters from Same Circles.

New challenges, interesting circles, puzzle conversations and additions to the puzzle-maker’s library.