BuiltbyGSV Lab · Software case study · In Progress
TEMPO
Players arrange four scrambled tiles into answer slots and submit an accepted word. The interface shows how many possible solutions remain, without displaying an unformed answer. It supports touch and keyboard input. Best score is stored on the device and is not synchronized.
The problem
TEMPO explores how a short word game can create pressure through time and rising pace. The interface needs clear touch and keyboard controls while preventing duplicate tiles and invalid submissions.
The product response
The app uses a deterministic game engine to track time, accepted words, score, and round state. Correct answers increase the tempo and add time; incorrect answers keep the same puzzle and award no points or time.
TEMPO turns a simple anagram into a fast round of choices: select the right letters, form a word, and submit before time runs down.
Correct words raise the pace, while wrong answers keep the current scramble in play. The engine tracks timing and input consistently, including when a browser tab is delayed.
Scope and technology
TEMPO is a mobile-first four-letter word game. Players place scrambled letter tiles into answer slots and submit accepted words before time runs out. Correct answers increase the pace and add a small time bonus; wrong answers keep the same scramble. The game runs in the browser, and personal best scores are stored locally rather than synced to an account.
- Status: In Progress
- Engagement: BuiltbyGSV Lab
- Technology: React, TypeScript, Vite, Tailwind
- Year: 2026
Next steps
Add more curated puzzles Explore accessibility settings Add optional progress export Test more mobile screen sizes