Cryptic crosswords are a great challenge for the brain, but they needn’t be scary. They’re not as deadly as the puzzles in the Exxilon City! Below are some hints and tips on how to complete them – Code Nine Anagrams: If a clue contains a word meaning “change”, such as “upset”, or “disturbed”, that means there is an anagram to solve. The words which require your attention are usually right next to the indicator word. Read more…
Cryptic Who has regenerated! Welcome to the new Cryptic Who website! The crosswords are now interactive, meaning you can complete them on your tablet or phone on the go, making it easier to complete the challenges your erstwhile compiler sets you and to tax those little grey cells. I know change can be strange, but life – and Doctor Who – relies on change. Don’t worry, though, the old blog Cryptic Who will remain online Read more…
Hello to all my new and existing followers! Just a quick note to tell you where to get updates every week about the crosswords. You can catch us on BlueSky under the hashtag #CrypticWho or on Reddit in the subreddit thread r/DoctorWhoCrosswords. If you have any suggestions as to where else to post, give me a shout! – Code Nine x
I loved Ghost Light as a kid. It was one of the stories that made me a fan in an outstanding final classic season. It was intelligent and bonkers, and crucially, didn’t talk down to its audience. As we enter Halloween season, it is only fitting that we explore the spooky Victorian era on our way. And yes, there will be the annual Halloween crossword coming your way soon! In the crossword below, you will Read more…
It has been argued that the Victorian era is Doctor Who’s natural home, and that is true to a certain extent. That era is now characterised by tumultuous change and social inequalities which speak to Doctor Who’s core ethos – especially our modern idea of its dark, dangerous alleyways and ruthless men intent on exploiting the innocent and helpless. Josiah Samuel Smith, Magnus Greel, and Dr Simeon could all easily fit into this category. In Read more…
“I’m a conman!” admitted Captain Jack once his “self-cleaning con” blew up in his face on his very own Volcano Day. It is surprising how many criminals the Doctor does befriend – Glitz, Dibber, and Drax among this number. Of course, plucky young rebels could also be considered to be criminals to the despots they’re overthrowing too. This week, we are heading to the shady part of town to see a man about a dog. Read more…
“I don’t think you have my best interests at heart, Dibber…” said Glitz as he prepared to pull another fast one. Aside from megalomaniacs and invaders in Doctor Who, there are also the criminals – the con artists, the gun-runners, the grifters, and the swindlers ready to part your cash from your wallet. There are a surprising number of them in Doctor Who. Some of them are redeemable, and some most definitely are not. These Read more…
Doctor Who is one of the most British TV series ever produced, so it is natural that the British capital, London, should feature heavily. However, it is hazardous being a Londoner in that universe. London has been invaded many times by the Daleks, Cybermen, Autons, and even by dinosaurs! A proper rigmarole. I shudder to think about the insurance premiums alone. This week, we’re heading to the Big Smoke to test your Knowledge. Good luck! Read more…
