What Is Worku?
Worku is a creative word game that combines the logic of a word guessing game with the artistry of haiku. All players solve the same hidden word, then transform the words they guessed—in the order guessed—into a haiku. Points reward both guessing skill and poetic craft.
Setup for in-person play
– 3+ players
– Each player needs a mobile device, internet access, and a private way to play a word guessing game
– Pen/paper or notes app
– Choose a Worku Master to start the first round and then rotate
Word Guessing Access
All players must guess the same hidden word. Any platform (such as the New York Times Wordle or mywordle) that allows private guessing of the same word may be used. Do not share guesses or the target word until the haiku phase.
The Worku Master
Selects the shared word, ensures everyone is on the same puzzle, keeps optional time, oversees voting and ties. The Worku Master does not play this round.
How to Play
Phase 1 — Word Guessing
Guess privately, record each guess in order, note number of guesses. Stop when finished or after ~4 minutes.
Phase 2 — Haiku
Write a 5–7–5 haiku using all guessed words in the order played and they must be used as is, unaltered. Suggested writing time: 8 minutes.
Phase 3 — Share & Vote
Read aloud, vote (no self-voting), tally scores.
Scoring
Use the rules below or the rubric or make up your own or just make haiku!
Word game guess points:
1→+6
2→+5
3→+4
4→+3
5→+2
6→+1
unsolved→0
Hard Mode +1 (must use found letters in next guess)
Haiku bonuses:
Humor +2
Nature +2
Clean use +2
Penalties:
Wrong structure −2
Missing word −1 each
Out-of-order −3
Ties
Worku Faceoff: Tied players only; new word; one full round; winner takes the round.
Game Length
First to 20 points or highest score after 5 rounds.
letters fall in line / from puzzle to quiet verse / worku every day