Every so often, a puzzle comes along that doesn’t just challenge the mind, but also warms the spirit. It’s the kind of experience that leaves a lingering smile, a feeling of pure satisfaction. The latest solve, aptly titled “That was fun!”, was precisely that kind of gem. From the very first glance at the grid, there was an unmistakable invitation to a delightful journey, promising more than just the usual mental workout. This wasn’t merely a collection of challenging wordplay; it was an expertly crafted session in joyful discovery, affirming why so many of us are drawn to the enduring appeal of the daily crossword.
The title itself speaks volumes. “That was fun!” isn’t a declaration of victory over an insurmountable challenge, nor is it a triumphant shout after a grueling intellectual battle. Instead, it’s the quiet, contented sigh of someone who has genuinely enjoyed their time, every single minute of it. And truly, every part of this particular puzzle lived up to that promise. The construction was impeccable, the theme woven with an elegance that was both subtle and brilliant. Each individual crossword clue felt thoughtfully placed, designed not just to obfuscate, but to guide with a mischievous wink.
What makes a crossword truly “fun”? It’s often the blend of accessibility and cleverness. It’s when a crossword clue, initially perplexing, reveals its elegant simplicity with a sudden “aha!” moment that feels entirely earned. This puzzle delivered those moments in spades. There was a consistent fairness to the logic, ensuring that even the most deceptively worded crossword clue eventually yielded its secrets with a bit of persistence and pattern recognition. No red herrings felt maliciously placed; instead, they felt like playful detours on the path to an enjoyable solution.
The constructor behind “That was fun!” clearly possesses a profound understanding of what makes a great crossword clue resonate with solvers. The entries were fresh, the crossings fair, and the overall flow of the solve felt like a well-choreographed dance across the grid. It’s a testament to their skill that even when encountering a particularly tricky crossword clue, frustration never set in. Instead, there was an eagerness to unravel its layers, confident that the underlying logic was sound and the solution ultimately attainable. This balance between challenge and reward is precisely what elevates a good crossword to a truly memorable one.
Throughout the solve, a consistent thread of ingenuity connected every segment. The wordplay for each crossword clue was sharp, often eliciting a chuckle or an admiring nod for its cleverness. It wasn’t about obscure trivia or arcane knowledge; rather, it was about appreciating the beauty of language and the playful ways words can be manipulated. Every section of the grid felt cohesive, contributing to the overall sense of a unified, engaging experience. Finding the solutions felt less like a chore and more like uncovering hidden treasures, one well-placed crossword clue at a time.
For anyone who seeks that perfect blend of intellectual stimulation and pure enjoyment, this puzzle offers an exemplary case study. It reminds us that the best crosswords aren’t just about filling squares; they’re about the journey, the satisfaction of connecting disparate pieces, and the sheer delight found in cracking a cleverly worded crossword clue. “That was fun!” isn’t just a title; it’s an accurate summary of an experience that every crossword enthusiast hopes for when they pick up their pen. It perfectly encapsulates the quiet joy and deep satisfaction that only a truly exceptional crossword can deliver, reinforcing why this pastime continues to captivate millions. The journey through its grid was a masterclass in how to craft an entertaining, fulfilling, and, yes, utterly fun crossword experience.
Available Answers:
WHAT A BLAST!.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0712-25 NY Times Crossword 12 Jul 25, Saturday