It's your first turn. The center star is a Double Word Score. Pick the play with the best total value — not just the highest score.
Drawing your opening rack...
Center Star = Double Word Score (2x)
How It Works
1
You receive a 7-tile rack for your opening turn. The center star gives every play a Double Word Score.
2
Pick from 3 possible plays. Each shows the word, its score, and the tiles left on your rack afterward.
3
The best play maximizes total value = opening score + leave quality, not just raw points.
4
After each pick, see the total value breakdown and learn why leave quality matters as much as scoring.
Opening Strategy
- Keep the S. An S in your leave is worth ~10 points of future value. Don't use it unless you're scoring 35+.
- Total value > raw score. A 24-point play keeping S-E-R often beats a 30-point play leaving Q-V-W.
- Sweet spot: 18-24 points. Most optimal openings score in this range with excellent leave.
- Avoid committing Q, J, X, Z on turn 1. Save them for premium squares later unless the score is 25+.
- Think three turns ahead. Your opening sets up your next two plays. A balanced leave means more options.