Balda Word Game

Balda is a classic word game on a 5×5 board. A five-letter word sits in the middle row. Add a new letter to an empty cell next to the letters and trace a chain of neighbouring cells to spell a word that uses it. A word scores one point per letter, and no word can be used twice.

Play Balda online against the computer on easy, medium or hard, or with two players on one screen. The game ends when the board is full or after two passes in a row; the higher score wins, and a draw is possible. A hint shows the longest word available. The English version uses an English dictionary and keyboard.

Tips:
1. Go for long words — they score more.
2. Do not leave your rival easy cells.
3. Prefixes and endings make words longer.
4. No word? Skip the turn.
5. Start with the easy computer.

FAQ:
— How do I play against the computer? Choose Versus computer and a difficulty.
— Can two people play? Yes, on one screen.
— Is it free? Yes, with no sign-up.

How to play:
1. Tap an empty cell next to the letters (sides only, not diagonal).
2. Pick a letter on the on-screen keyboard — it appears on the board.
3. Trace a chain through neighbouring cells to spell a word of three or more letters. It must include the new letter.
4. Tap Done. A word scores one point per letter; words cannot repeat.
No word? Tap Skip. The game ends when the board is full or after two passes in a row; the higher score wins.

Phone: tap a cell, tap a letter, swipe along the chain.
Desktop: click with the mouse, type the letter, Enter — Done, Backspace or Esc — step back.