The Guardian has launched its latest brain-teasing challenge with the publication of Genius crossword No 271. This intricate puzzle offers more than just a test of vocabulary and lateral thinking; it tasks solvers with helping to identify the cause of a tragic historical event.
A Puzzle with a Historical Twist
This month's Genius crossword contains a unique and compelling thematic layer. All the clues have been constructed with a word removed before solving. The removed words, combined with the letters in the completed grid, will provide crucial evidence. This evidence points directly to the cause of a stampede that occurred 20 years ago this month, as well as a related phrase.
The puzzle's design is meticulously crafted. The Across clues contain five words, while the Down clues contain five more. Together, these ten words subtly hint at who was responsible for the incident in question. Furthermore, the grid features nine unclued entries. These spaces are reserved for the nine words that solvers must deduce and write above the puzzle.
How to Enter the Competition
Participants eager to tackle this cryptic historical investigation must act promptly. The deadline for entries is 23:59 GMT on Saturday 31 January. To be eligible for the £100 monthly prize, solvers must enter through The Guardian's official online competition platform.
The entry process requires a one-time registration. Users need to register once and then sign in to theguardian.com to submit their completed solution. This system ensures a smooth and secure process for all contestants vying for the cash prize.
A Legacy of Complex Challenges
The Genius crossword series is renowned for setting the highest standard in cryptic puzzling. It consistently attracts a dedicated community of solvers who relish its complex themes and clever construction. Puzzle 271 continues this tradition by weaving a sombre piece of recent history into its fabric, demanding both deductive and research skills from its audience.
This approach transforms the crossword from a mere pastime into an engaging investigative exercise. It connects the intellectual pursuit of solving clues with the real-world task of uncovering and remembering a significant event from two decades past.
