Word Square Builder

Word Square Builder 3.2 is a PowerPC-native shareware tool for constructing word-search puzzles -- the kind where interlocking words hide inside a grid of random letters. Authored by ScatterSoft and released 21 August 2001, it lets puzzle makers manage word lists, control puzzle geometry, and export finished grids as graphics for print or web use.

What you can build

The program accepts user-entered word lists that can be saved and reused across sessions. Authors set the size and shape of the puzzle grid, and can flow the puzzle around irregularly shaped pictures so the finished page can wrap art rather than sit in a plain rectangle. Font, letter spacing, and the pool of filler characters are all under the user's control.

Direction and difficulty controls

To tune difficulty, the builder exposes per-puzzle settings for which directions hidden words may run -- horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forward, or reversed. The more directions enabled, the harder the resulting search. Solutions can be generated and printed alongside the puzzle for answer keys.

What 3.2 added

The August 2001 release introduced the ability to enter and print clues, hidden text, and fixed messages embedded into the grid -- letting authors hide a quotation or secret phrase among the search words. These additions push the tool past pure word-search and toward small custom puzzle layouts.

Output and distribution

Puzzles can be printed directly or exported as graphics files for use in desktop publishing or on the web. The software is shareware and may be redistributed unregistered on CD-ROM compilations.

System requirements

Mac OS 7.5 or higher with QuickTime 3.0 or better is required; some functions need QuickTime 4.0. The program is PowerPC-native and was distributed via Kagi.