REVIEW: Tom Sturdevant Introduces “Q-Less” (GAME)
Tom Sturdevant’s Q-Less is the kind of game that comes along once in a generation, blending ingenuity, portability, and cross-generational appeal into a package that’s as addictive as it is rewarding. Touted as a “crossword solitaire” game, Q-Less isn’t just a pastime; it’s a phenomenon. Whether you’re a wordsmith, a casual gamer, or someone looking for a mental challenge, Q-Less delivers the perfect balance of strategy and fun.
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/tom.sturdevant.1/
For those unfamiliar with Sturdevant’s storied career, he’s no stranger to creating hits. His earlier blockbuster (pun intended) success, The Blockbuster Movie Game, flew off shelves at the height of the video rental era, proving his knack for intuitive and accessible game design. I vividly remember seeing that game at my local Blockbuster and thinking, “Wow, this is a game you could play with anyone.” Fast forward to Q-Less, and it’s clear Sturdevant hasn’t missed a step.
At its core, Q-Less is deceptively simple. Players roll dice to create a random assortment of letters, which they then use to build words in a crossword-style format. It’s an engaging mix of Scrabble-like wordplay and the solo satisfaction of solitaire, but the real magic lies in its flexibility. It’s portable, fitting into a sleek tin perfect for travel or tossing into your bag, and it’s just as enjoyable for one player as it is for a group.
One of the most striking aspects of Q-Less is its universal appeal. Older adults praise its ability to keep their minds sharp, while kids love it as an alternative to screen-heavy entertainment. Even corporate teams have found it to be a great “brain break” in the office. It’s the rare game that can truly claim to be “fun for all ages.”
The game’s meteoric rise is no accident, either. It’s been championed by NPR’s Pop Culture Happy Hour, and the response has been overwhelming. After hearing NPR producer Andrew Limbong’s glowing endorsement, I was inspired to try Q-Less for myself. And now? I can’t stop playing.
ABOUT: https://qlessgame.com/pages/how-to-play
But Q-Less doesn’t just stop at the physical game. The new Q-Less Crossword Solitaire App, available on both Apple and Android, takes the gameplay to another level. The app faithfully recreates the tactile satisfaction of rolling dice and building words while adding modern conveniences like tracking your best scores and competing with friends. It’s polished, intuitive, and perfectly suited to the digital age without losing the charm of the original. Whether you’re killing time on a commute or winding down at home, the app ensures you’re never far from the addictive pull of Q-Less.
Tom Sturdevant’s passion for game design shines in every aspect of Q-Less. This isn’t just another word game — it’s a carefully crafted experience that invites players to think, strategize, and, most importantly, have fun. The fact that Sturdevant launched this hit in his 80s is inspiring enough, but the quality of the game speaks for itself.
Whether you’re picking up the tin for family game night or downloading the app for a solo challenge, Q-Less is a must-have. It’s a modern classic, and I can’t wait to see what Tom Sturdevant dreams up next.
Colin Jordan
