Word Chain
Each word starts with the last letter of the one before.
How to play Word Chain
Goal: Keep the chain going longer than the computer.
- 1The computer plays the first word.
- 2Reply with a real word of 3 or more letters that starts with its last letter.
- 3No word can be used twice.
- 4You have 15 seconds per turn. If the computer runs out of words, you win.
On a computer
Type your word and press Enter
On a phone
Tap the box, type your word and tap Play
Play Word Chain free against the computer. Reply with a word that starts with the last letter of the previous word, before the timer runs out.
About Word Chain
Word Chain is a quick word game against the computer. Each word must start with the last letter of the word before it. Words need at least three letters, must be real dictionary words, and cannot be used twice in the same game. You have 15 seconds per turn.
Chain word games are played aloud on car trips and in classrooms all over the world, sometimes with themes like countries or animals. Our free version uses a large English word list and a computer opponent that answers from everyday words.
It sharpens vocabulary and quick thinking at the same time. Type your word on a phone or computer keyboard and see how long a chain you can build.
Word Chain is a great game to play with a friend sitting next to you, too. Take turns typing words on the same screen and see who gets stuck first, using the timer to keep it fair. Arcade Pantry is free to play with no sign up and no download. Your best results are saved only in your own browser.
Word Chain tips and strategy
- Try to end your words with letters that start few words, such as X, Y or K, to make the computer work harder.
- Keep a mental list of words for awkward letters, for example Y words like YEAR, YELLOW and YOUTH.
- Short words are fine. Three letters is enough to keep the chain going.
- Do not repeat a word from earlier in the game. Repeats are not allowed.
- If the timer is running low, type the first simple word that comes to mind.
- Plurals ending in S give the next player lots of options, so avoid them when you want to pressure the computer.
Word Chain FAQ
What are the rules of Word Chain?
Each word must start with the last letter of the previous word, be a real word of 3 or more letters, and not repeat.
How long do I have for each word?
15 seconds per turn. The bar shows how much time is left.
Can the computer lose?
Yes. If it has no unused word for the needed letter, you win.
What counts as a real word?
Words in our English dictionary list count. Names and abbreviations usually do not.
Is Word Chain free?
Yes. It is free in your browser with no app or sign up.