Sticker Shock FAQ
When does a new Sticker Shock puzzle start?
A new daily puzzle unlocks at midnight in your own time zone. Everyone plays the same five prices on the same calendar date.
Where do the prices come from?
They are U.S. city average prices published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, averaged over each calendar year.
Why is the price different from what I remember paying?
The game uses national averages per unit, such as per pound or per gallon. Your local store, brand or package size may have been different.
How is my score calculated?
Each item is worth up to 100 points. Within 5 percent of the real price earns 100; at 60 percent off or more it earns zero; points fall smoothly in between.
What does "in today’s dollars" mean?
It is the old price adjusted for overall inflation using the Consumer Price Index, so you can compare it with prices now.
Do hints affect my streak?
No. Free hints add a light bulb to your shared result, and hints unlocked by watching an optional ad do not, but neither breaks a streak.
Can I play puzzles I missed?
Yes. The archive has every past daily puzzle. Archive games count toward your statistics but not your streak.
Is Sticker Shock financial advice?
No. It is a game built on public data that may contain errors. Do not use it to make financial decisions.