Mattel has introduced a new double-sided Scrabble board in Europe, featuring both the classic game and a new version called Scrabble Together. This new rendition is designed to be more team-oriented and accessible for all players, making it quicker to play. This marks the first significant change to Scrabble’s board in over 75 years, with the goal of ensuring inclusivity for all players. Consumers now have the option to choose between the classic game and the new version, catering to a wider audience.
Scrabble Together is targeted towards players of all ages and allows for easy switching between modes on the double-sided board. A survey accompanying Mattel’s announcement revealed that many British consumers have previously searched for words or even made up new words while playing Scrabble. This insight reflects the popularity and creativity surrounding the classic word game. The new version aims to bring a fresh perspective to the game and attract a larger audience, emphasizing a more collaborative and diverse playing experience.
While Scrabble Together is currently available in Europe, its expansion to other regions, including the U.S., remains uncertain. Mattel holds the rights to Scrabble in many parts of the world, while Hasbro licenses the game in the U.S. Both companies have developed different versions of Scrabble over the years, leading to regional variations and a unique dynamic for fans worldwide. Hasbro has confirmed that they currently have no plans for a U.S. update but expressed interest in exploring new ways to engage players globally and broaden the game’s appeal.
The history of Scrabble dates back to 1931 when American architect Alfred Mosher Butts created the game’s predecessor, initially named “Lexiko.” The game underwent several iterations before becoming known as Scrabble in 1948. Since then, Scrabble has been produced in 28 languages and sold in 120 countries, with over 165 million games sold globally. Despite its longstanding popularity, word games such as Bananagrams and Wordle have gained traction in recent years, showcasing the enduring appeal of challenging and engaging word-based activities.
The introduction of Scrabble Together reflects a trend in the toy industry towards providing alternative or simplified versions of classic games to broaden their reach. By offering different modes of play and focusing on inclusivity, Mattel aims to evolve Scrabble for a modern audience while honoring its timeless legacy. The dual-sided board and team-oriented gameplay present a fresh perspective on the beloved word game, inviting players of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the Scrabble experience in new and exciting ways. With its rich history and continued innovation, Scrabble remains a staple in the world of board games, appealing to a global audience of word enthusiasts and gamers alike.
