Let’s be real for a second—when I first heard about Q-Less, I didn’t expect to love it. I mean, a word game invented by an 80-something-year-old? In a world full of fast-paced video games, endless TikTok scrolling, and Netflix binges, I didn’t think I’d ever find myself obsessed with rolling dice and making words. But Q-Less surprised me in the best way, and now I get why it’s become a full-on phenomenon.
If you haven’t heard of Q-Less, you might have at least seen its creator, Tom Sturdevant, on TikTok. Yes, the TikTok. Sturdevant, a musician and award-winning game inventor, has somehow cracked the algorithm—and the generational divide—with over 100k followers. For the past nearly 1,200 days (yes, days), he’s uploaded videos of himself playing Q-Less, one game at a time, keeping a streak that’s both impressive and oddly inspiring. His calm demeanor, clear love for the game, and sheer consistency make his content so satisfying to watch. But the real magic happens when you stop watching and actually play the game yourself.
So, what is Q-Less, exactly? It’s a crossword solitaire game that combines strategy, creativity, and just the right amount of luck. You roll dice with letters on them, and your job is to use those letters to create a crossword puzzle on your grid. Points are earned for every word you form, but here’s the catch: if you roll letters you can’t use, you’re “Q-less,” and your round ends. Sounds simple, right? It is—until you realize how tricky it can be to maximize your score and make the most of each roll.
The genius of Q-Less lies in its versatility. Whether you’re a casual player who just wants to kill some time or a hardcore word game enthusiast, this game has something for everyone. It’s quick to learn but challenging enough to keep you hooked, which is why I found myself playing round after round. It’s the perfect solo game when you need a mental break, but it’s just as fun to play with friends or family during a game night.
The physical game comes in a small, portable tin that’s easy to take anywhere. I’ve brought it to coffee shops, road trips, and even class breaks (sorry, professors). But if you’re not into carrying around dice and a grid, you’re in luck—Q-Less also has an app. Available on both Apple and Android, the app captures everything great about the physical game and makes it even more accessible. The interface is sleek, the gameplay is seamless, and it even includes daily challenges to keep things fresh. For me, it’s become my go-to game whenever I have a few spare minutes or need a break from scrolling social media.
What really makes Q-Less stand out, though, is its creator. Tom Sturdevant is a legend. Not only did he invent Q-Less at 75, but he’s also been creating games for decades. Back in the day, he sold a board game to Blockbuster (remember them?) that was sold in all their stores. And now, in his 80s, he’s thriving on TikTok, where he’s built a community of fans who love his game as much as he does. Honestly, he’s proof that passion and creativity don’t have an expiration date.
What I find most interesting is how Q-Less bridges generational gaps. Older adults love it because it’s a great way to keep their minds sharp, while younger players are drawn to its fast-paced gameplay and screen-free experience. Even corporate teams are using it as a fun brain break. It’s rare to find something that appeals to such a wide audience, but Q-Less pulls it off effortlessly.
At its heart, Q-Less is more than just a game—it’s a movement. Whether you’re playing to sharpen your mind, bond with friends, or just pass the time, it has a way of drawing you in. And with Sturdevant at the helm, it’s impossible not to root for its continued success. So, if you haven’t already, pick up a tin or download the app. Trust me, you’ll see what the hype is all about—and you might even find yourself playing daily, just like Tom.
Claire Uebelacker