CrypticCrab Crossword

Your #1 cryptic crossword app

Only for iPhone

Free · In‑App Purchases

iPhone

Ever stared at a cryptic crossword clue and wondered if it was written in another language? CrypticCrab cracks the code on cryptic crosswords, one clue at a time. Ever stared at a cryptic crossword clue and wondered if it was written in another language? You're not alone. CrypticCrab cracks the code on cryptic crosswords, one clue at a time. Most people think cryptic clues are impenetrable. The secret? Every cryptic clue has exactly two paths to the answer. Once you see the pattern, you'll never look at a crossword the same way again. CrypticCrab teaches you to solve real cryptic crossword clues through hands-on practice, not passive reading. Our four-phase lesson system breaks down each concept: TEACH: Watch as clues are dissected before your eyes. Colour-coded breakdowns show exactly how definition and wordplay work together. GUIDED SOLVE: Tap the definition words, identify the wordplay, classify the technique. Immediate feedback on every tap -- green for right, shake for wrong. ASSISTED SOLVE: Try solving with a safety net. Progressive hints available when you're stuck (technique type is free; letters cost XP). SOLO SOLVE: You versus the clue. Enter your answer letter by letter. A detailed breakdown appears after every attempt, reinforcing what you've learned. WHAT YOU GET: - Two complete learning modules: The Golden Rule (double definitions) and Indicator Words (anagrams, hidden words, reversals, and more) - A fresh daily puzzle to keep your skills sharp - XP system with 8 levels from Novice to Grand Master - Streak tracking that rewards consistency (never punishes missing a day) - Three-star ratings on every lesson -- replay for perfection - Searchable reference glossary of indicator words and abbreviations - Technique summaries that unlock as you learn CrypticCrab is a word puzzle game that teaches as you play. No subscription, no ads, no internet required. Your progress is saved locally on your device. Whether you're a complete beginner who's never attempted a cryptic clue, or a casual solver looking to understand the method behind the madness, CrypticCrab meets you where you are and builds your skills one clue at a time. The answer to the clue is always there. You just need to learn where to look. For full terms and condition see https://crypticcrab.xyz/terms/ We are committed to maintaining your privacy, for details see https://crypticcrab.xyz/privacy/

Ratings & Reviews

  • 5.0
    out of 5
    4 Ratings

What's New in v1.1 - New Help Tools: Reference Lookup, Anagram Solver, Thesaurus, and Letter Jumble now open as dedicated bottom sheets instead of inline in the solve screen, giving each tool more space and a cleaner solve experience - Native Text Selection: Select words in the clue using standard iOS long-press in Reference Lookup and Thesaurus cards (requires iOS 18) - Letter Jumble Card: Shuffle your letters visually in a dedicated card with a Shuffle button — tap Done when you're happy with the arrangement - Smarter Anagram Solver: Hint-revealed letters are now locked to their positions when searching, so results only show words that fit - Hint-Revealed Letters Stand Out: Letters given by the Letter hint now display in the theme colour (coral for daily, teal for archive) so you can tell them apart from letters you typed - Letters Kept on Wrong Answer: Submitting an incorrect answer no longer clears your letterboxes, so you can keep using tools against what you've entered - "Not Quite" Feedback on Past Clues: Archive puzzles now show the same "Not quite — try again!" card that daily puzzles show on a wrong answer - Tool XP Costs: Using the Anagram Solver (−15 XP) or Thesaurus (−10 XP) now reduces the XP you earn when you solve the puzzle - iOS 18 Minimum

Version 1.1.0

The developer, Rodney Telford, indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

  • Data Not Collected

    The developer does not collect any data from this app.

    Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

    The developer indicated that this app supports the following accessibility features. Learn More

    • Supported Features

      • VoiceOver

      • Larger Text

      • Dark Interface

      • Sufficient Contrast

      • Reduced Motion

    Information

    Seller
    • Rodney Telford
    Size
    • 11.1 MB
    Category
    • Word
    Compatibility
    Requires iOS 18.0 or later.
    • iPhone
      Requires iOS 18.0 or later.
    Languages
    • English
    Age Rating
    4+
    In-App Purchases
    Yes
    • CrypticCrab Premium (lifetime) $69.99
    • Learning Module 3 $1.99
    • CrypticCrab Premium (1 Month) $3.99
    • CrypticCrab Premium (3 Month) $9.99
    • Learning Module 2 $1.99
    • Learn More
    Copyright
    • © 2026 Rodney Telford. All Rights Reserved.
  • Developer Website
  • Privacy Policy

    • Supports

    • Game Center

      Discover new games and play with friends. This game also features leaderboards and achievements.

    • Family Sharing

      Some in-app purchases and subscriptions may be shareable with your family group when Family Sharing is enabled. Learn More

    More by Rodney Telford