Upwords
Upwords is the stackable word game that everyone adores, especially if you played it as a child. If you enjoy Scrabble then you will LOVE Upwords. It's a very similar game to Scrabble where you place your letters onto a board to create words. As with Scrabble, you can use existing letters on the board to make new words.
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Read the rules for Upwords
What is Upwords?
Upwords is the 3D, stackable word game that lets you build words upwards as well as across—perfect for anyone who loves Scrabble but wants a fresh twist! The fun comes from stacking letters up to five tiles high, changing words as you go, and racking up extra points for clever plays. It’s a word battle where vocabulary, creativity, and tactical thinking all matter.
Fun Fact: Upwords has been released in multiple colours and styles over the years, with both classic and “Lazy Susan” rotating board versions!
History of Upwords
- Invented by toy designer Elliot Rudell and first released in 1982.
- Millions of copies sold worldwide, with glowing reviews from families and word game fans alike.
- Originally published by Milton Bradley, later by Hasbro, and now by Spin Master.
- Modern editions often feature a “Lazy Susan” spinner for easy play around the table.
How to Play Upwords – Rules
- Each player draws letter tiles and uses them to create new words on the board, either horizontally or vertically.
- You can stack your tiles on top of existing letters (up to five tiles high) to create new words or change old ones—just make sure every word is valid!
- Earn extra points for stacking tiles and changing words in clever ways.
- No “S” for cheap plurals: Since 2008, you can’t just add an S to make a new word unless it forms another word at the same time.
- Game ends when all tiles are used or no further moves can be made. Highest score wins!
Why is Upwords So Brilliant?
Upwords is beloved because it’s familiar yet totally fresh. It’s perfect for word lovers, families, and anyone who wants a game that encourages creativity and tactical play. The scoring rewards bold moves, and every game feels different as the words stack higher and higher!
Retro Tip: If you remember a green or blue letter bag, you’re not alone—the bag gets more feedback than the rules!
Who Invented Upwords?
Upwords was invented by Elliot Rudell, a prolific American game and toy designer. In a 2022 interview, Elliot said Upwords is his all-time favourite project!
When Was Upwords Invented?
Upwords hit the shelves in 1982. Hasbro published it for a while, but now Spin Master is the official publisher.
How Do I Win at Upwords?
Upwords is all about a big vocabulary, quick thinking, and making the most of every play. Try to learn new words, mix up your strategy, and don’t be afraid to go vertical! For more in-depth tips, check out the semi-legendary (and hard-to-find) How to Win at UPWORDS by Charlotte Whitney.
Strategy & Tips
- Maximize your points by stacking tiles—don’t just play across when you could play upwards!
- Try to “block” opponents’ best moves by changing their words or covering premium spots.
- Plan ahead for big scoring plays—sometimes it pays to save a key tile for later.
- Remember the “no cheap plurals” rule—get creative with your S’s!
- Use the rotating board to your advantage and always check for stacking options in every direction.
Upwords Challenge: What’s the tallest stack you’ve ever built? Five tiles is the max!
Why We Love Upwords
Upwords is the ultimate family word game—easy to learn, hard to master, and endlessly replayable. From childhood nostalgia to fierce adult competition, it’s a retro classic that grows with you. Stack, score, and outwit your friends in style!