Games World of Puzzles May 2021

Welcome to the May issue of GAMES WORLD OF PUZZLES. This month we’ve got a special treat for you: “Call Me Steve” by Andrew Parr (page 33). So what’s the big deal? Parr, our “uncontested GAMES historian,” spoke to world-famous Broadway composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim. Now, you may be familiar with Sondheim for his work on shows like A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Sweeney Todd, and Into the Woods. But did you know that he is also an accomplished constructor, collector, and solver of puzzles? You’ll learn that and much more from Parr’s wide-ranging conversation about puzzles with Sondheim. This is a must-read for both casual fans and dedicated puzzle enthusiasts.
While we’re on the subject of folks who have made notable contributions to the world of games and puzzles, Ernő Rubik certainly deserves a place on that list. His eponymous Cube started out as a fad in the 1980s and has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Now, Rubik has written a book called Cubed: The Puzzle of Us All. Rather than a how-to guide on solving the Cube or an autobiography, Cubed is a look inside the workings of Rubik’s mind. Check out Raymond Simon’s review of the book (page 42).
Next, R. Wayne Schmittberger covers the 2021 Tata Steel Chess Tournament. Although the host city was in lockdown due to COVID-19, the tournament proceeded as an in-person event between the 14 Grandmasters who participated. (Spectators were not allowed, however.) Although the players included some famous names such as Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana, it was Dutchman Jorden van Foreest who prevailed, with his countryman Anish Giri finishing in second place. Turn to page 64 to see a recap, results, and a featured game from this eventful tournament.
Last but not least, this month’s Pencilwise section offers plenty to keep you busy. Contrary to its menacing title, “Off with Their Heads!”(page 10) is a clever visual puzzle you’ll want to match wits against. For wordplay buffs, Patrick Berry’s “Rows Garden” (page 49) and Bob Stigger’s variety cryptic “All Points Bulletin” (page 62) are sure to satisfy. Fans of math and logic will enjoy Margery Albis’s “Mine Finder” (page 29) and “Train Tracks” (page 54), a new puzzle by Sylvain Hogue.
Sharpen your pencils…Ready, set, go!