Dave\'s Word Game looks to offer an indie alternative to Wordle when it arrives next month

Dave's Word Game is a fresh launch from indie studio Bearwaves.
Arriving next month, it presents a compelling alternative to Wordle.
Aim for the top score by crafting multiple high-value words and challenge your friends.

Ever since its debut in 2021, Wordle has captivated the globe—boosted by pandemic-era isolation and a renewed appetite for classic puzzles. Many have tried to claim its throne, and the latest contender is the quirky yet compelling Dave's Word Game, set to release on iOS and Android on December 15th.

At first glance, Bearwaves’ debut bears strong resemblances to the now NYT-owned phenomenon. But dig a little deeper, and distinct differences appear. Instead of simply guessing words, you’re reconfiguring the board to maximize the number of words you form, all in pursuit of a higher score.

You’ll also need to play with strategy—every move matters, since a misstep could block your best chances later. The core goal remains the same as Wordle: rally your friends to play and see who emerges as the ultimate wordsmith.

What wordsmithery

Look, I write for a living, so the last thing I’d want to do is test my vocabulary as a hobby. But if you’re someone who loves showing off your thesaurus-level mastery—and giving your friends a friendly challenge—this could be a brilliant new addition to your game collection.

I’m not sure who exactly Dave is, but their Word Game seems poised to make a real impact. Of course, it’ll need to be exceptional to stand up to Wordle’s legacy. Here’s hoping its deeper, more strategic twist will draw players in.

In the meantime, if you’re looking to challenge your mind in a more personal way, why not explore our roundup of the best puzzle games on Android?