November 21st 2024.
Hey there readers! Are you enjoying our new crossword puzzle? We would love to know your thoughts. It's been a hot topic among our MetroTalk mailbag entries, making it one of the most debated topics in our history. Surprisingly, it's not about Brexit, Trump, or even the proper etiquette for wearing a backpack on the train. No, it's all about our new Quick Crossword.
Since its relaunch on November 11, we've received some exasperated comments claiming it's too difficult and bringing people down. We even printed some of these comments in our pages and discussed with the creator about making it a bit less tricky. However, we also received defending comments stating that the new version is refreshing and provides a great mental workout. So, what should we do? What's the solution?
Should we keep it as is, change it back, or find a middle ground? We're here and we're listening. Please share your thoughts in the comments and by voting in our poll below. We value your input.
What do you think about the new Quick Crossword?
- It's way too hard - change it back
- It's not that bad - I love a challenge
- I would prefer something in-between
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METRO TALK - HAVE YOUR SAY
Let us know your thoughts...
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Is the Quick Crossword too tricky? Here's what some of our readers have been saying:
Just three of the frustrated but loyal crossworders who wrote into Metro this week
'Despair and torment'
We're three avid Metro crossworders and we do the Quick Crossword every day. However, it seems to have changed or should I say, gotten harder! Why? It's now different from the online version where it used to be the same. Unfortunately, our quick win to start the day has turned into torment and despair! Please revert back so we can start our day with a win. - 3 Frustrated Loyal Crossworders via Email
'Enough is enough'
Dear Metro, on behalf of the Crossword Association of Metro Readers, we have been suffering for the past two weeks and feeling like dummies while staring at your new crossword with no idea how to fill it in. We used to breeze through the old crossword and finish it in an average of ten to 15 minutes with a perfect score. It made us feel like geniuses and filled us with pride. We demand the old crossword back and we want it by Monday. Just to let you know, some of our members own tractors too. - Ersire, London
'Wishy washy quiz'
I can no longer contain my anger at what you've done to the 'quick' crossword. It's no longer a crossword and it's definitely not quick. This used to be a nice distraction for my colleagues and me during our short lunch break before heading back to work. Now, it's turned into a quiz with wishy-washy clues and ridiculously difficult questions - atomic number of germanium, hello?! Please bring back what we knew and loved, not this weirdness. - Becky B, Derby, and the rest of the NHS
'Everyone has the right to a morning crossword'
English is not my first language and almost completing the quick crossword a few days a week made me proud of my understanding of it. But with the new version, it's so difficult! Please be inclusive - immigrants have the right to a morning crossword too. - Stella, via email
'Not so "quick" anymore'
I completely agree with what others are saying about the 'quick' crossword. I used to do it during my 20-minute commute but not anymore - the clues are too cryptic. I'm not one to complain, so I've taken to doing the Sudoku instead. But you should really listen to your readers and go back to the original format. - Claire, Crayford
'The final straw'
May I add my name to the growing list of people annoyed by the recent changes to the so-called 'quick' crossword? My main reason for reading Metro, after the news articles, is the quick crossword. But it's become far too complex. The final straw was Tuesday's ridiculous clue of 'Neuter reflexive pronoun'. What? Is the crossword setter trying to show off their cleverness? Please go back to the old one in the name of my sanity. - Steve, Leeds
'Anger-inducing brain ache'
For the love of all that is good in this world, please go back to the old format! Why have you turned a quick brain-teaser into a cryptic, anger-inducing brain ache? - Two Sheds, via email
'My morning commute ruined'
You've managed to ruin my morning commute! I love doing your crossword on the way to work and on my WFH days, I even walk to the station so I can get your paper and do the crossword. But since you updated it, I've found the clues to be very difficult and frustrating. I can only complete about 15%, whereas before I could complete at least 75%. - Vicky, via email
But some readers are enjoying the challenge
The new tougher format is really testing readers
'Makes you think'
The new quick crossword makes us think instead of just remembering answers to familiar clues. Keep up the hard work. Well done! - Nita, Ealing
'I have to use my brain'
I used to find the old quick crossword a simple task, so I'm really enjoying the new format where I have to use my brain. And I'm not just saying this because my cousin is the Editor. - Matt Arthurs, Orpington
'Brain-sharpener'
It's great to have a harder version of the quick crossword. My friends and I are enjoying the challenge. To those who don't like it, embrace the brain-sharpener! - Gillian, Coventry
'Loving the Metro puzzles double page'
I'm really enjoying the new Metro puzzles double page. The quick crossword is harder than usual, but I'm constantly getting a score of 16 or above on the wordwheel. So, while I may struggle with the new quick crossword, I'm making up for it with the wordwheel. - Julia, Dulwich
'Fellow crossworders, embrace the challenge'
For those of you complaining about the crossword getting harder, get a life. I used to finish the quick crossword in two or three minutes and while I agree that it's harder now, it's good to be tested. So come on, fellow crossworders, embrace the challenge. - Martin Lawrence, South Croydon
Here's a clue for you...
'Eight letters...'
With regards to the new crossword, I have to say I'm enjoying the new challenge. To paraphrase Friedrich Nietzsche, "That which does not kill us makes us stronger". - Paul Billson, Letchworth Garden City
'12-letters...'
To all those Metro readers struggling with the new quick crossword, here's a helpful 12-letter clue for you - 'constant persistence'. It starts with 'p' and ends with 'e'. Answer: 'perseverance'. PS - Hope you can take a joke! - Leo, Romford
We will report back on the results of the poll and our discussions with our crossword creators in the Talk pages soon.
What are your thoughts? Have your say in the comments below. Comment now.
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