Understand the rules
- Play the tutorial! HexaLex is similar to other crossword games, but it has a few important differences. The tutorial will introduce you to these differences. It will also introduce features of the interface that can make the game more enjoyable.
- Understand junk words. The biggest difference between HexaLex and other crossword games is junk words. The tutorial describes junk words, but if you need more explanation and some pictures read “The Basics” in the help, which is accessible from the main menu.
- It’s good to play lots of tiles. You get a 5 point bonus for playing 5 tiles (a fiver), a 15 point bonus for playing 6 tiles (a birdie), and a 40 point bonus for playing all 7 (a bingo).
- Use your full exchanges. If your tiles look lousy, remember that you get 3 chances to swap them out for free in each game!
Understand the interface
- If you think you see a play, try putting down the tiles. The instant feedback system will mark invalid plays immediately, so if your play is unmarked you know it’s valid.
- Two-letter words can be a tremendous help when trying to find a play. You can access a list of the valid two-letter words by tapping the “info” button in the lower-right corner of the game screen.
- Shuffle your tiles often. It really helps you see the words they’re hiding!
Understand crossword game strategy
- Keep your eye on the bonus hexes (2L, 3L, 2W, 3W) and play to them. The hexagonal grid gives you lots of ways to reach them!
- When you draw a power letter (J, Q, X, or Z) make a real effort to put it on a 2L or 3L letter multiplier hex. Knowing the two-letter words of these letters (JO, QI, XI, XU, AX, EX, OX, and ZA) can often let you play in two directions off such a multiplier, netting you massive scores.
- Do your best to avoid opening up the 3W bonus hexes to your opponent. They’re worth a lot!
- Bless the S: If you draw an S, use it to pluralize a word on the board while also building a new word. For example, if ZAP was on the board you could turn it into ZAPS while also playing QUEST. In general, hold on to an S until you can score at least ten extra points by playing it.
- Bank on the blank: You get to pick the letter when you play a blank tile. If you draw one, don’t play it until you can get at least a birdie (a 6-tile play), or better yet a bingo (a 7-tile play).
- Don’t forget defense! If you’ve got a 20 point play that opens up the 3W hex and an 18 point play that doesn’t, you should probably take the 18 point option.