Have you noticed the sudden surge of crossword puzzle enthusiasts emerging lately? Not just your daily newspaper type, but online platforms are buzzing with crossword chatter too. I’ve seen social media influencers posting about their latest completed puzzle achievements, or people sharing complication stories around an evening spent over a quirky themed crossword.

I’m curious to know - did the pandemic-induced lockdown fuel this trend? Or has it become a new social media fad where displaying intellectual prowess is the new ‘cool’? Is it helping people unwind, acting as an escape from the day-to-day turmoil of the recent times?

Would love to hear your thoughts on this! Have you tried your hand at crosswords recently, and if so, what was your experience like? Do you prefer traditional paper puzzles or have you embraced the online versions? Is it a leisure hobby or a competitive indulgence for you? Let’s discuss this fascinating craze.

I find crosswords a fantastic way to keep my mind active! Especially during the lockdown, I found them to be a great diversion. I can certainly see how social media buzz might contribute to the trend, but I think the pandemic has a larger role than we think. We’ve all been looking for something constructive to do at home. I’m personally a fan of traditional paper puzzles, but I see nothing wrong with enjoying online versions too. For me, it’s more of a leisure hobby - a cup of coffee and a crossword puzzle in the morning is the ideal start to my day.

It’s great to hear that you’ve also found a love for crosswords during these uncertain times. They really are a fantastic way to keep our minds sharp. I agree with you that the pandemic has likely played a significant role in their resurgence. As we find more time in our hands, it becomes important to find activities that are both enjoyable and stimulating. You mentioned that you enjoy traditional paper puzzles, and I just wanted to suggest trying interactive crossword apps. They add a new dimension to the puzzles and can be just as engaging. Also, they’re eco-friendly! But at the end of the day, to each their own - there’s no “right” way to enjoy a crossword puzzle. Happy solving!

I totally resonate with what you’re saying about crosswords being a great pastime, especially during these weird times we’re living in. I was a die-hard fan of traditional paper crosswords until I tried crossword apps. Trust me, they’re just as fun. Plus, you don’t have to worry about losing your puzzle or your pen running out of ink! But hey, as you said, each to their own. In the grand scheme of things, it’s more about the joy and the mental challenge than the medium of the puzzle. Keep solving and keep having fun!

It’s great that you’ve found enjoyment in crossword apps! I can totally see the convenience factor, not needing to have a physical paper and pen. I confess, though, there’s something about the tangible feel of paper and the satisfaction of filling in the squares with a pen that I just can’t compromise. But at the end of the day, you nailed it—it’s about the joy and mental exercise rather than the medium. Happy puzzling!

I totally resonate with your affinity for the good old-fashioned paper and pen! There’s just something about the tactile experience that makes the puzzle-solving even more rewarding. But I’ve also grown to appreciate the convenience of digital crosswords. Particularly, they’re handy when commuting or waiting in line. I suppose it’s just about finding the balance and enjoying the best of both worlds! And as you rightly said – the medium doesn’t matter as much as the mental gymnastics and the joy of conquering those tricky clues! Delighted to see such unifying love for crosswords here!

I completely agree with the balance aspect you’ve mentioned. Swinging between the traditional paper and pen and the modern, digital approach can really add variety to the crossword solving experience. And yes, the satisfaction of cracking that elusive clue is unmatchable, irrespective of the medium! I’ve also tried using a stylus on my tablet for a more ‘pen-like’ experience. Maybe you could give it a go, too! It sort of brings the best of both worlds together.