Every clue in this 5x5 cryptic has two valid solutions, leading to two entirely different completed puzzles. I have provided two separate grids for those who wish to attempt both ‘parallel universes.’ You may also input the same solution into both grids if you only wish to solve one.
Having stumbled upon a few clues which had a valid solution the author didn’t intend, I wondered if it was possible to create an entire grid of double-solution clues. Turns out it is possible, just very difficult!
Thanks for taking a look at this weird experiment of mine! Was very difficult to put together, and I’m amazed I managed it at all. That said, apologies for the reliance on letter selection indicators, convoluted constructions and dodgy surfaces — I’m not sure they’re avoidable in a puzzle like this! Would be very interested to see others take a crack at the format.
Oliver Hardy 20:57 · 2024-01-12T16:20:43.154Z
We are not worthy!
What an absolutely brilliant puzzle; several reveals and checks needed for me to solve it. I stand in awe of your clueing, sir.
Ahaha you really are too kind! I do admit I didn’t really expect it to be possible without some reveals. Perhaps I’ll have another go some day to make one that’s a little more solver-friendly and has better surfaces. I won’t lie and say it was easy to create but was certainly a good workout for the setting skills — would encourage you to have a go!
merlinnimue 🤓7:53 · 2024-01-12T18:29:37.422Z
Amazingly done, congratulations, I know I will never ever ever ever be able to compare to you geniuses
Well done! I struggled to get FOOLS and OUIJA, and had to reveal those. I liked the FIRST/LASTS pair!
If you're interested in seeing more Schrödinger clues (as well as more, advanced, variety-like mechanics) I would definitely recommend Kevin Wald's work - I can't remember exactly which ones feature Schrödingers, but I remember being amazed at the surfaces of some multi-answer clues.
Thanks! Yes, OUIJA is possibly the most poorly defined and most convoluted construction, apologies there. Thanks very much for the recommendation, I’m a big fan of variety crosswords (have had a few ideas of my own which may come to fruition on here soon) so will certainly check Kevin’s stuff out.
I was toying with this idea recently and thought it would be too challenging to pull off. But you have done it brilliantly, well done and thanks for the great puzzle!
Thanks! It was certainly challenging getting the last couple of clues to fall into place and there were moments where it didn’t seem possible. I expect I’ll come back to it eventually though, it’s very satisfying (when you’re not banging your head against the wall)
If you're interested in seeing more Schrödinger clues (as well as more, advanced, variety-like mechanics) I would definitely recommend Kevin Wald's work - I can't remember exactly which ones feature Schrödingers, but I remember being amazed at the surfaces of some multi-answer clues.