Whether you are in line, class, or just walking through the halls, you’re bound to see someone scrounging for words. And they’re not writing a paper.

The mobile game Words With Friends has taken off across campus, with students eager to play the game with their friends. Similar to Scrabble, the game is a puzzle word game that requires its players to compete with one opponent, whether it be randomly selected or a personal friend. The crossword style and ease of use has allowed many to pick up the game without much difficulty.

Although the game was released in 2009, a new feature that allows the player to instantly play against friends via Facebook has caused the game’s popularity to soar. Now players can instantly connect either through Facebook or Twitter.

Sophomore Justin Spagnuolo said the game has become his favorite app. “Words with Friends is a pretty convenient way to challenge your friends in something other than a drinking game. It gets pretty competitive and addicting.”

Currently in the Top Charts for iTunes Apps, the game comes in two forms: a free version with ads and a $2.99 ad-free edition. Along with the multiple editions is an HD version for iPad owners, a version for Android owners, and a variety of add-ons that allow users to cheat and look up words on the spot.

The game, published by Zynga, adds to a catalogue of addicting social networking titles, such as Zynga’s Farmville and Mafia Wars. Along with Words, Chess With Friends was initally created back in 2008, which spearheaded the networking gameplay.

So if you’re a word nerd, download the app and challenge your friends to a game because they’re probably already playing it.