The grey, green and yellow squares taking over social media in the last few weeks is an example of the fascinating field of study known as Game Theory. In this bite episode of DataCafé we talk casually about Wordle - the internet phenomenon currently challenging players to guess a new five letter word each day.

Six guesses inform players what letters they have gotten right and if they are in the right place. It’s a lovely example of the different ways people approach game strategy through their choice of guesses and ways to use the information presented within the game.

Wordles

• Wordle - the original
• Absurdle - it's Wordle but it fights you!
• Nerdle - Maths Wordle
• Quordle - when one Wordle is not enough!
• Foclach - Irish Wordle

Analysis

• Statistical analysis of hard-mode Wordle with Matlab by Matt Tearle (youtube)
• The science behind Wordle by Ido Frizler (medium.com)

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Recording date: 15 Feb 2022

Intro music by Music 4 Video Library (Patreon supporter)

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