CNET Editors' review
For crossword fans, the question isn't why you should download this freeware crossword creator, but why you possibly wouldn't. EclipseCrossword may not be glamorous, but it will make quality crosswords of varying sizes in mere seconds. Better yet, your final creations will be printable or publishable in a number of formats, including Web pages.
The program uses a wizard-style interface to guide you through the steps of making your own crossword, starting with entering the clues and answers one by one and ending with a crossword puzzle that fits your size specifications. Both puzzles and word lists can be saved as Eclipse files or as HTML, while interactive crosswords can be created with Java or dHTML. Finally, the puzzles can be exported as RTF, WMF, or EPS files. EclipseCrossword is a great inspirational tool for creative puzzlemakers, or a complete solution for anyone who wants to whip up a basic crossword.
Publisher's Description
From Green Eclipse Software:
EclipseCrossword is a free application that makes creating crossword puzzles ridiculously easy. Just give it a list of words and clues, and it gives you a crossword puzzle that you can save and share, print out for photocopying and distribution, and even save as a Web page for posting on the Internet. EclipseCrossword guides you through the entire process, which takes just seconds after entering your words. This program is a must for K-12 teachers.
Version 1.2.57 fixes a bug where accented characters showed up as boxes or question marks in Interactive with JavaScript puzzles.
What's new in this version: Version 1.2.57 fixes a bug where accented characters showed up as boxes or question marks in Interactive with JavaScript puzzles.
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All versions:
4.2 starsout of 44 votes
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Current version:
3.5 starsout of 20 votes
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My rating:
Write review
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"Immediately able to use."
Version: EclipseCrossword 1.2.57
Pros
It is self-explanitory.
Modifies the puzzle many different ways so you can pick the one you like.Cons
Can't think of any.
Summary
I used it immediately to create a puzzle for my Bible study group. Not difficult to use.
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"Tried the rest - this was best! :-)"
Version: EclipseCrossword 1.2.57
Pros
Excellent simple setup and help files.
Downloaded it and used it at once.Cons
No real cons - some complaints here by others are missing the point:
It is R.T.G. - even a Uni lecturer can run it at once! :-)Summary
Anyone trying to teach anyone anything could use this tool. It engages the brain, a most difficult thing to do in this VISUAL age of dumbed-down fluoride drinkers.
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"A really good crossword program."
Version: EclipseCrossword 1.2.57
Pros
It is really easy to create crossword puzzles with EclipseCrossword. This program is simple, clear, complete, plenty of options, and free.
Cons
None after one week using it.
Summary
Thanks a lot Green Eclipse for EclipseCrossword.
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"Works very well"
Version: EclipseCrossword 1.2.57
Pros
Pretty easy to understand how to use and make puzzles. I was making themed puzzled for our local weekly newspaper.
I like the way it produces an "Answer Grid" same as the puzzle but filled in.Cons
I doesn't make a full grid, in other words where there are not puzzle words there is just a gray area. It bothered me at first but then I used the gray space to put the sponsors name and puzzle theme, so it's not a con for me.
Summary
A very worthwhile download if you're planning to make crossword puzzles.
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"No Unicode support"
Version: EclipseCrossword 1.2.57
Pros
It installed okay, and seems to do something.
Cons
I was looking for a crossword generator that would allow me to enter words in any language. Sadly, this didn't fit the bill.
Summary
It may be good for some languages, but not for all.
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"Easy to use and very fast."
Version: EclipseCrossword 1.2.57
Pros
I like how it is free and very light but does so much. You not only make a puzzle but you can also make it a webpage and choose how you would like it to be printed. If you love crosswords or want to challenge friends, this is the program for you.
Cons
THere is only one thing I do not like about the program. I do not like the location of where it puts your name on the page.
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"compact easy to use"
Version: EclipseCrossword 1.2.57
Pros
simple easy to use program
Cons
none yet...
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"I really like this software!"
Version: EclipseCrossword 1.2.57
Pros
II tried a number of "free" online crosswords and this was the best - hands down!
I like the various options for saving the puzzles.
Being able to adjust the size of the overall puzzle is great.
Entering the words and clues was easy and intuitive.Cons
No real cons. I once had an issue with accidentally erasing words and definitions I had already typed in, but I was trying something "different" and deleted them without realizing what I had done.
Summary
have recommended this program to dozens of instructors as an easy and quick way to prepare "vocabulary" puzzles for their students. I've used it for 3 semesters now. Everyone I recommended it to, that tried it, loved it too.
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"great program"
Version: EclipseCrossword 1.2.57
Pros
easy to use
Cons
none that I can think of
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"Easy to use, does what is says it would"
Version: EclipseCrossword 1.2.57
Pros
Very easy to use and install. No problems
Cons
Can't find any problems with it yet. Seems all good so far.
Summary
Simple, free and basic. Does what it says it would.










