Games World of Puzzles December 2022

Welcome to the December issue of GAMES WORLD OF PUZZLES! Before we delve into the details of what’s inside, we have some exciting news for you: An special 96-page Holiday issue will hit newsstands in late November! Included will be an expanded game review section, plus extra articles and puzzles for your enjoyment. Consider it our early holiday gift to you.

In the meantime, this issue contains plenty of treats for you to enjoy in the here and now. For starters, check out “Mind Games” (page 34), Todd Kreisman’s Q&A with A.J. Jacobs, author of the 2022 book The Puzzler: One Man’s Quest to Solve the Most Baffling Puzzles Ever, from Crosswords to Jigsaws to the Meaning of Life. Pay close attention as you read through this fascinating interview—you may discover a surprise!

Next, move on to Hayley Gold’s “A Christmas Carroll,” which showcases some of the word puzzles of the multi-talented Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, better known as Lewis Carroll. While Carroll is known primarily for his literary works, such as Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass, he also created scores of puzzles and games. Turn to page 38 to learn more!

For those who prefer puzzles, our Pencilwise section is packed with them! Floris Smith’s “Rikudo” (page 13) is a Japanese number logic puzzle that is new to our magazine, while “End View” by Michael Rios (page 55) is a familiar favorite. Highlights among the word puzzles include Joel Nanni’s “HexaCross” (page 30), a variation on the classic “Rows Garden,” and two puzzles called “Double Cross”: an acrostic by Michael Ashley (page 51) and a variety cryptic by Emily Cox and Henry Rathvon (page 63).

The festive season is already underway, so eat, drink, and start solving. And be on the lookout for the Holiday 2023 issue!