[GameSetLinks is GameSetWatch's daily link round-up post, culling from hundreds of weblogs and outlets to compile the most interesting longform writing, links, and criticism on the art and culture of video games.]

Continuing the linkfest at the weekend, there's all kinds of fun randomness in here, starting out with Warren Spector's paean to the common, non-electronic word game, which is a delight to behold, given its enthusiasm for the joy of verbiage.

Also in here - co-operative gaming as a super-important trend, unfortunate cheat sheet-related faxes, music games (like the pictured Korg DS-10) and learning things, Flash game awesomeness galore, and more.

Protect ya neck:

Playing Word Games « Warren Spector’s blog
A delightfully enthusiastic post from the Junction Point founder on 'word games I’ve been obsessed with and addicted to over the years'.

SteveStreeting.com » Blog Archive » My Top Gaming Trend of 2008: ‘Designed for Co-op’
Some good trend-related thoughts from Streeting, the top line being: 'I was a happy bunny in 2008, because it was the year when designing games specifically for co-op play finally entered mainstream thinking.'

UK:RESISTANCE: INTERNAL SEGA COMMUNICATIONS - SOUL CALIBUR PANTS-COLOUR CHEAT CONFUSION MADE GOOD
In this case, UKR is right to shout, since this is a horribly industry-emblematic fax, if you're a glass half empty type.

Game of the Year Bullshit - z a c k h i w i l l e r
Some fun categories and snark (also insight) in here from game developer Hiwiller, eg 'Most Overrated Overrated Game'.

Wild Tyme: [118] Culture and Creativity: 'Karaoke Gaming' and Korg DS-10
Fun, provocative piece about music games and learning things, which concludes: 'Can a video game include necessary 'creative software' while still enticing the gamer with pick-up-and-play accessibility? I'm not so sure.'

Best of Casual Gameplay 2008 - Jay is Games
Gigantic (actually narrowed down, crazily!) list of the top games JiG reviewed this year, and opportunities to vote for the best.