Write the prompt around a playable rule
The example defines length, number of attempts and two kinds of feedback. Ask for a consistent word list and a sample round so players can learn what the symbols mean. If you want a theme, narrow the vocabulary to a familiar category such as kitchen objects, but avoid answers with multiple spellings or several equally plausible forms.
Original concept prompt: “Create a five-letter word deduction game using familiar everyday nouns. Players get six guesses; after each guess, mark correct letters in the right place and correct letters in the wrong place with distinct symbols. Use one answer per round, include a small sample round, and never reveal letters that are not in the answer.” This is a recipe for an idea, not a claim that this exact game is already playable.
Play, observe and refine one thing at a time
Play the sample round and verify every feedback mark against the answer. Try a guess with repeated letters to see whether the game counts them consistently. Then play a real round without a hint and note whether each result helps you eliminate options. If a symbol is ambiguous, change its shape or add a short legend before revising the guessing rules.
Use a few handpicked answer cases while testing: a word with no matching letters, one with a misplaced letter, and one with duplicates. Ask the generator to handle those specific cases, then replay them. Difficulty can come from a tighter guess limit or a less familiar theme, but only after the clue logic is reliable and the interface explains the feedback.
Do not make a word puzzle hard by silently changing what counts as a valid answer. Keep spelling and vocabulary expectations clear. If many answers could fit the clues, add a category or a more informative feedback rule instead of forcing players to burn guesses on arbitrary choices.
Playable reference for this prompt: Capitals. Endless 3-lane runner: a country floats up and you drag left/right to run through the gate with its capital city. Right = speed boost and confetti, wrong = stumble and lose a life. Use this example to compare the proposed rules with a game you can try now.
Questions about word game prompt ideas
How should repeated letters be evaluated?
Specify that feedback cannot award more matches than the answer contains. Test guesses with duplicate letters in both correct and incorrect positions.
How can letter feedback work without color alone?
Pair each state with a symbol or label. Players should distinguish correct position, wrong position and absent letters even if the colors are difficult to separate.