JARNAC

The word duel.

A faithful digital adaptation of the classic French board game. Two players, one shared dictionary, a signature steal mechanic. Ten-minute matches, ELO ranking, English and French.

What sets Jarnac apart

Real-time. Word-by-word. With the coup de Jarnac.

Real-time duels

Two players, head-to-head, turn-based but live. Three time controls: Blitz (15s), Standard (30s), Relax (45s) per turn.

The steal mechanic

The game's namesake: build on your opponent's word to claim it as your own. High risk, high reward, the move that decides matches.

ELO ranking

Ranked matches move your ELO. Friendly matches don't. Ten-minute games, English or French dictionary, your call.

The Jarnac lobby
The lobby - find an opponent or chat.
A Jarnac duel in progress
A duel mid-flow - racks, board, timer.
Word placement in a Jarnac duel
Place letters, claim words, watch the clock.

Frequently asked questions

Jarnac, the online word duel.

What is Jarnac?

Jarnac is a two-player online word game, a faithful digital adaptation of the classic French board game. Each player builds words on their rack, and the signature steal mechanic (the coup de Jarnac) lets you claim your opponent's word by extending it.

Can I play Jarnac online for free?

Yes. Jarnac is free: download the app on mobile (iOS, Android) or Mac, and play other people online, in real time.

How do I play Jarnac online?

Start an online match, pick the dictionary language (English or French) and a time control (Blitz, Standard or Relax), then find an opponent in the lobby. Place letters to form words, try the steal, and climb the ELO ladder. The full rules are here.

What is the coup de Jarnac?

The coup de Jarnac is the game's signature move: extend a word your opponent has placed to claim it as your own. High risk, high reward, and often the move that decides the match.

Is Jarnac multiplayer?

Yes, Jarnac is played head-to-head in real time. Ranked games move your ELO, friendly games don't. A match lasts about ten minutes.

Ready to duel?

iOS · Android · macOS · Windows

Download Jarnac Learn the rules