National Scrabble Day 2024: Mattel launches new less 'intimidating' version of game

One of the world's most popular word games is getting a new version.

Just ahead of National Scrabble Day, Mattel unveiled Scrabble Together this week adding a second side to the classic Scrabble gameboard to make "gameplay more accessible for anyone who finds word games intimidating," the company said in a news release.

The company said the double-sided board allows fans to "pick and choose their gameplay mode, so everyone can have fun with Scrabble." It is the first time in its 75-year history that Scrabble has made such a significant change to its gameboard, according to Mattel.

Here's what to know about the new version:

What changes in Scrabble Together?

Scrabble Together allows players to work as a team to complete goal cards at their chosen challenge level, with helper cards to aid players throughout the game, according to Mattel. The game is also designed to be quicker with simple scoring, the company said.

Where can you find Scrabble Together?

The game is currently only available in Europe, as Mattel owns the Scrabble license globally but not in North America, a Mattel spokesperson told USA TODAY.

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Why a new Scrabble version?

Mattel says new research has "delved into UK adult's love for board games" and found that 51% of board game players use it as a way of unplugging from social media, while 65% believe playing board games helps them switch off.

“Scrabble has truly stood the test of time as one of the most popular board games in history, and we want to ensure the game continues to be inclusive for all players," said Ray Adler, global head of games at Mattel, in the news release.

"For anyone who’s ever thought, 'word games aren’t for me', or felt a little intimidated by the Classic game, Scrabble Together Mode is an ideal option," Adler said in the statement. "With team based and faster gameplay, Scrabble Together Mode continues to celebrate the wonder of words just as the Classic version does, but thanks to its exciting new co-operative and dynamic gameplay, it’s more accessible and brings people together."

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at Gdhauari@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: National Scrabble Day 2024: Mattel's new 'accessible' version of game