Jotto (1956)
Jotto
Jotto, also known as Giotto, is a code-breaking pen and paper word game for two players, invented in 1955 by Morton M. Rosenfeld. The game was initially marketed by Rosenfeld’s New York-based Jotto Corp, and later, in the 1970s, copyright passed to the Selchow and Righter Company. The game is now made by Endless Games.
Why is Jotto Popular?
Jotto is a popular game because it is a simple and engaging way for two players to test their code-breaking skills and vocabulary. The game has been around for over six decades and has maintained its popularity due to its accessibility and the challenge it presents to players.
Game Components of Jotto
How To Setup Jotto
To set up Jotto, each player chooses a five-letter word and writes it down secretly so the other player cannot see it. The words should be dictionary-valid and can include repeating letters.
Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective
– Players take turns announcing a test word.
– The opponent reveals how many letters in the test word match the letters in their secret word (called “jots”).
– Players mark down the number of jots and use this information to guess the opponent’s secret word.
– Choose a secret word with common letters, double letters, and interesting combinations.
– Use words with odd letters or combinations to eliminate possibilities quickly.
– Avoid wasting turns on single letters; use diverse letter combinations.
Player Experience
Jotto is a game that challenges players to think creatively about word combinations and letter frequencies. It requires a mix of strategic thinking and linguistic knowledge. Players must balance between guessing common letters and eliminating less common ones, making each turn a puzzle to solve.
Pros
Cons
Personal Thoughts on Jotto
Jotto is perfect for those who love word games like Wordle or Mastermind but prefer a more interactive, competitive experience. It’s ideal for linguaphiles and puzzle enthusiasts who enjoy the challenge of deciphering hidden words. While it may not be as fast-paced as some modern games, Jotto offers a rich and engaging experience that tests your linguistic and strategic skills.
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