XWord Muggles Forum

I’m a bit surprised at some of the resistance I’m seeing here to cryptics. With a cryptic, I always know that I can slog through it, even if it’s a complicated variety cryptic, and even if it includes some uncommon words (like the typical Richard E. Maltby, Jr. variety cryptic in Harper’s) — whereas, with a tough meta, I often just don’t get it or see it. And then I need nudges. Can’t just slog through. But then, that’s me. It probably helps that I’ve been doing cryptics of all kinds and levels since the mid ‘80s.

I recommend being open to cryptics — though you may find they’re just not your thing.

This was a good puzzle, although I had to use Bing to get the movie, which I wasn't very familiar with. But like a good meta, you know you've got it when you get it. I'm also on board with not really getting 7D.

I've gotten into cryptics relatively recently, and I may like them more than regular American-style crosswords these days. I highly recommend giving them a chance to anyone who is intimidated. It has a bit of a learning curve but it's really fun when it offers an aha moment with every clue. Watch Ryan and Brian's solving Twitch streams for a good intro.