A nearly perfect score

Seth Godin

by Seth Godin

March 1, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

After 498 consecutive days of playing Bongo, an online word game, the author achieved a second-highest global score, highlighting the unique appeal of open-ended games compared to traditional puzzle formats. Unlike crossword puzzles or Wordle, where success depends on guessing the creator's intended answers, Bongo is generative and combinatorial. Players use the same set of tiles but aim to create high-scoring words that stand out from others', fostering creativity and competition without relying on a fixed solution. The article contrasts closed-system games like crossword puzzles with open-ended ones like Bongo, where the goal isn’t just to solve a puzzle but to generate innovative answers. This difference can lead to frustration in traditional games due to the subjective nature of clues and answers, whereas Bongo’s design encourages collaboration and creativity. The author emphasizes that even though they invented Bongo, there is no inherent advantage over other players since everyone starts with the same tiles, creating a level playing field. For readers interested in business, this highlights the importance of open-ended systems in fostering innovation and collaboration. Open-ended games mirror real-world challenges where problems often have multiple valid solutions, encouraging creative thinking and adaptability. Bongo’s success demonstrates how generative systems can engage users by emphasizing originality and competition, offering lessons for businesses looking to innovate or improve their approaches to problem-solving. In a world where many casual online games rely on fixed answers, Bongo’s open-ended nature offers a fresh perspective. The game’s mechanics align with modern business principles, such as fostering creativity and collaboration. By embracing systems that celebrate diverse solutions rather than relying on predetermined outcomes, businesses can unlock new levels of innovation and adaptability—key traits in today’s fast-paced, competitive landscape.

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Originally published on Seth Godin on 3/1/2026