Sure you can lock direction in 45 degree iteration or compare distance. So if player pick diagonal route then the next valid word queue position must had that same diagonal distance reference, if less it will be ignored. And it goes the same with horizontal or vertical pick.
Well you just need to search the keyword deeper. My example exist years ago to showcase that kind of game mechanic:
dropbox.com/scl/fi/07ytwvrz4rvbnwbclu8w9/search_word_jumble.capx
If you need match detection reference example:
dropbox.com/scl/fi/6gqid9g6bqjp9i7t9xgen/find_detect_match_3b.capx
Posting it in relevant thread to get proper response: construct.net/en/forum/scirra-website/website-issues-and-feedback-35
Scaling within tap scrolling: drive.google.com/file/d/11K_Ci7PjnyjYWSBYNIWi0RtfWYMTw9QJ/view
If it is about perfect angle bouncing then this example fit that:
dropbox.com/scl/fi/3wb7ua84yhe93ufcghie4/bllt_bounce.capx
My favourite approach for resetting value would be using modulo:
Set value to (var+1)%maxValue
, you just need to replace maxValue with number or a defined variable.
Alternative minesweeper (game with source) without array:
construct.net/en/free-online-games/minisweepy-66966/play
It must be something off with text hotspot or origin/image point.
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You can take the idea from this example: dropbox.com/scl/fi/45ewbr1c5fxkk1vqzu4q8/putari_planet_gravzone.capx
Right click on current event sheet then choose 'include event sheet'.
Cycle through family member example: dropbox.com/scl/fi/n29erzi09qc0wg8ghtkw2/cycle_through_family.c3p
My example does that but probably not suit your taste? These days I rarely do Constructing so I don't have much time to modify it to fit your style.
Badge star save system: dropbox.com/scl/fi/nkxuvkihtlia2ezc3fw9q/LevelSaveMenu.capx
For me arrow keys is more intuitive. I found it by incident anyway.