An exploration of all things cryptic — escape rooms, puzzle hunts, ARGs, and beyond.
Why puzzles?
Puzzles capture the essence of human curiosity.
Puzzles lead us to discover new layers of wonder in the world around us.
Puzzles get us to connect with others through the shared processes of observation, frustration, and discovery.
About me
Hi! I’m Matthew, and I’m a puzzle addict.
In 2019, I left my job as a software engineer at Google to design puzzles full-time. I’ve since created intricate experiences for an incredibly wide range of contexts, including an art journal, a Michelin star restaurant, a secret music launch, and multiple proposals. I’ve even worked as the in-house puzzle designer at a finance company.
I also write about escape rooms and immersive gaming for Room Escape Artist.
“Puzzle designer” isn’t exactly the most common career, so I started writing this newsletter to share some of the behind-the-scenes of what I do. My day-to-day is a delightful mix of searching the world for wondrous new “aha”s to share and honing the myriad technical skills involved in puzzle construction.
Puzzles are inherently multidisciplinary, and my love for puzzles has grown out of the kaleidoscope of perspectives I’ve cultivated through my other interests. I grew up studying classical violin and viola, and I currently play folk fiddle in Baymele. I’m also a printmaker, letterboxer, origamist, writer, and trail runner.
Happy puzzling, and stay curious!
