Panagram
Panagram was the first new puzzle I developed for The Telegraph, designed to provide a fresh and engaging word challenge for subscribers. The goal was to introduce a puzzle that combined strategy, creativity, and vocabulary skills, while seamlessly fitting into The Telegraph's existing suite of word games.
- Telegraph Puzzles
Research
To create Panagram, I conducted an in-depth analysis of popular word games such as Spelling Bee and anagrams, identifying elements that kept players engaged. Surveys and early test groups helped refine the core mechanics, ensuring a perfect balance between difficulty and accessibility.
Player personas
The primary audience for Panagram includes word puzzle enthusiasts, casual players looking for a daily challenge, and competitive solvers seeking high-score achievements. Key player insights included: “I enjoy word games that reward creativity,” and “I like having a daily challenge that I can improve on over time.”
Game flow & mechanics
Panagram was structured to provide an intuitive yet compelling challenge. Players are given a set of letters and must form as many words as possible, with bonus points for finding the panagram—a word that uses all letters at least once. The puzzle was designed to offer increasing difficulty while maintaining accessibility for all skill levels.
Wireframes
Collaborating with The Telegraph's design and product teams, I developed multiple early-stage prototypes to refine gameplay and usability. The interface was optimised for clarity, encouraging players to focus on word discovery while maintaining an engaging and visually appealing layout.
Visual design
Panagram was designed with a sleek, modern aesthetic, ensuring readability and intuitive interaction. A clear letter arrangement system, dynamic score tracking, and celebratory animations were incorporated to enhance player enjoyment and a sense of accomplishment.
Outcome
Panagram quickly became a favorite among Telegraph subscribers, significantly boosting player numbers and retention. Engagement metrics showed a 75%+ increase in player retention, with many users returning daily to improve their scores and compete with friends. Its success reinforced the demand for well-designed, stimulating word puzzles, establishing Panagram as a cornerstone of The Telegraph's puzzle collection.