SCRABBLE: New Rules Take Effect
A few NEW RULES and changes in the game of scrabble are now in effect beginning yesterday, February 2.
I find it very interesting to see the wide range of reactions when I inform long time players about the new rules. Everything from very serious interest to ‘who cares’.
The truth be known, most players know little more than the basic rules. I shouldn’t complain. If all players knew all the rules than I might be out of a job as a club and tournament director. The nonchalant players simply want to form words and lay words down on the board. They have no interest in studying the rules. And once in a while when their ignorance to a rule costs them a turn or a game or some time off their clock, they holler and moan.
I encourage all my scrabble students to know the rules, adhere to the rules, and hold all opponents accountable to following the rules too. On several occasions I’ve had to stand by, watching a rule being broken, where the victim didn’t know that he was being cheated. In one instance, the rule breaker went on to win that game and the tournament. Not only did the opponent lose the game, but the whole field was effected.
As a director, there are many instances when I can only step in when summoned by a player. If not called, a transgression is ignored and the perpetrator benefits.