Obscura is a vocabulary challenge game where you identify obscure words based on a given definition, and by using hints like synonyms, part of speech, context clues, etymology, and the first letter. Obscura is designed to improve one's vocabulary. Obsura also offers topical spin-offs of the original game, to help you master subject-specific terminology.
Obscura is designed for anyone looking to enhance their vocabulary, including students, educators, writers, and language enthusiasts.
You'll receive a definition, and four possible options for the word being defined. There are also a series of hints to help you guess the correct word.
In the base game, hints include synonyms, part of speech, context clues, etymology, and the first letter of the word. For subject specific games, the hints vary by each subject.
Yes, you earn points for each correct answer and additional points for using the word in a sentence.
Correct Answer = 100 points
Correct Answer + 1 Hint Used = 80 points
Correct Answer + 2 Hints Used = 60 points
Correct Answer + 3 Hints Used = 40 points
Correct Answer + 4 Hints Used = 20 points
Correct Answer + 5 Hints Used = 5 points
Incorrect Answer = 0 points
Bonus Round Correct Answer = 20 points
Bonus Round Incorrect Answer = 0 points
No, you will not lose points if you select an incorrect answer, you will simply just not gain any points for that round. However, in the challenge mode, you will lose 50 points for each incorrect answer.
Yes! Using the word correctly in a sentence can earn you 20 bonus points.
No, Obscura does not require an account to play.
Yes, Obscura is free to play.
Obscura is accessible through modern web browsers on desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
No, it is not possible to sync scores across devices as Obscura only operates locally.
Scores are saved automatically in the browser's permanent storage. This means you can leave / close the website, and your score will still be there upon return. Scores may be reset if you delete browser data.
You can report issues through the "Report an Issue" link in the Support section of the website's footer menu (found at the bottom of each page).
Use the "Feedback & Suggestions" link in the Support section of the website's footer menu (at the bottom of each page) to share your thoughts.