The Basics
CrossBingo combines the puzzle-solving of crosswords with the pattern-matching excitement of bingo. You play on a 5x5 grid where each cell contains a crossword-style clue.
Objective
Be the first to complete a line of 5 correctly solved cells — horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. The center cell is always a free space, giving you a head start.
Game Flow
- A 5x5 grid appears with a crossword clue in each cell
- Click any cell to read its clue and type your answer
- Correct answers mark the cell green; wrong answers are flagged red
- Complete any row, column, or diagonal of 5 to call BINGO
- Bonus points for completing multiple lines or filling the entire grid
Sample CrossBingo Board
Here is what a typical CrossBingo grid looks like. Each cell has a clue; the center is free.
A diagonal line is forming from top-left to bottom-right. One more solve to win!
Scoring System
Points are awarded based on speed, accuracy, and completion patterns.
| Action | Points | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Correct answer (first try) | +100 | Maximum points per cell |
| Correct answer (second try) | +60 | Reduced for retry |
| Correct answer (third try) | +30 | Minimum solve points |
| Wrong answer | -10 | Small penalty per attempt |
| Complete a line (BINGO) | +500 | First bingo of the game |
| Additional line | +300 | Each extra line completed |
| Full board clear | +1000 | All 25 cells solved |
| Speed bonus | Up to +200 | Finish under 5 minutes |
Pro Tips from Top Players
Strategies used by leaderboard champions to maximize their scores.
Start with the Center
The center is free. Build outward from it — you only need 4 more solves for a diagonal or center-row bingo.
Easy Clues First
Scan all clues before starting. Solve the easiest ones first to build momentum and identify which lines are most achievable.
Target One Line
Do not scatter your efforts. Focus on completing one specific line rather than solving cells randomly across the board.
Use Word Tools
Stuck on a clue? Use A2Z Word Finder to search for answers by letter pattern or length.
Maximize First Tries
First-try solves earn 100 points versus 60 on the second attempt. If unsure, skip the cell and come back rather than guessing.
Speed Round Tips
In Speed Round, skip hard clues immediately. Solve 13+ cells in 3 minutes for a competitive score. Every second counts.