FREEFORM PUZZLE OPTIONS

The following options are available for you to adjust before you start building the Freeform puzzle:-
  • The size and shape of a Freeform Puzzle can specified in two different ways:-
    • Specify the size of the rectangle which will contain the puzzle:-
      • Cells Across: Insert a value in the range 5 to 50 to specify the number of columns of cells in the finished puzzle.

      • Cells Down: Insert a value in the range 5 to 50 to specify the number of rows of cells in the finished puzzle.

      These values are treated by the program as maximum values. If it can fit all of the words in your dictionary into a smaller space, them it will do so.

    • Select a Template from a list of available templates. A template enables you to make Freeform Puzzles in shapes of your own choosing, such as a circle or a heart. The Grid Maintenance function provides all of the facilities you will need to design your own templates.
  • When building a Freeform puzzle, Magnum Opus tailors its activities according to a set of Build Criteria which you can select from a set of four criteria. They are:-
    • Maximize words.
    • Maximize letters.
    • Maximize linked letters.
    • Build a Gemini compatible puzzle. Gemini puzzles are discussed in detail in the Help available from the Free-form Construction screen. In this mode, not only is the number of linked letters maximized, but the numbers of Across and Down words are constrained to be equal.
    The default optimization is to maximize linked letters, but you can select either of the others via the combo box provided.

  • The Filter option allows you to enter a Filter which will be applied to the words in your dictionary. Only those words accepted by the filter will be used in constructing the puzzle. The default filter is * which results in all words being accepted.