How to Play

words.nei.ma is a fun, real-time multiplayer word game you can play with friends directly in your browser!

• Create a Game: Enter your name and click "Create Game" to start a new game
• Share the Code: You'll get a 6-character room code — share it with your friend
• Join a Game: Your friend enters the code and clicks "Join Game"
• Play! Take turns placing tiles on the board to form words and score points

• Select a tile from your rack by clicking/tapping it (it will glow gold)
• Place it on the board by clicking/tapping an empty square
• Form words — all tiles placed in a single turn must be in one row or column
• First move must cover the center star (★) square
• Subsequent moves must connect to existing tiles on the board
• Submit your word when ready — invalid words will be rejected
• Recall tiles to bring placed tiles back to your rack
• Shuffle to randomize the order of tiles in your rack

Each tile has a point value. Your score for each word is the sum of all tile values, modified by premium squares:

• Letter multipliers (DL, TL) apply to individual tile scores
• Word multipliers (DW, TW) apply to the entire word score
• Premium squares only count the first time they are covered
• Bingo Bonus: +35 points for using all 7 tiles in one turn!
• Cross-words formed by your tiles also count toward your score

• Swap: Select a tile and click Swap to exchange it for a random tile from the bag (uses your turn)
• Pass: Skip your turn without playing (counts as a consecutive pass)
• Blank Tiles (★): Can represent any letter — you choose when you place it (worth 0 points)
• Resign: Concede the game to your opponent

The game ends when:

• A player uses all their tiles and the tile bag is empty
• Both players pass 3 consecutive times each (6 total passes)
• A player resigns

At game end, remaining tile values are subtracted from each player's score. The player with the highest score wins!

• Aim for premium squares — Triple Word squares can triple your entire word score!
• Look for opportunities to form multiple words in a single play (cross-words)
• Save high-value tiles (J, Q, X, Z) for premium squares
• Don't forget about 2-letter words — they're great for creating cross-words
• Use all 7 tiles for a 35-point bonus
• Use the chat to celebrate (or trash talk) your opponent! 😄