The phrase denotes programs developed for personal computers in their initial phases capable of generating or facilitating the solution of word puzzle games. An example would be a rudimentary application designed to produce crossword grids or a program allowing users to input clues and answers digitally.
These applications marked a shift in how recreational activities were accessed and experienced. They provided convenience, potential for customization, and portability absent in traditional physical forms of the puzzle. Historically, they represent an early adoption of personal computers for leisure and creative problem-solving.