Asteroids-Inspired Watch Sparks Nostalgia Among Gamers

NEW YORK, N.Y. — A unique watch inspired by the classic 1970s video game Asteroids has captured the attention of gaming enthusiasts and collectors alike. Released on February 1, 2025, the timepiece features a design that pays homage to the iconic Atari game, with the ship from Asteroids serving as the second hand and two UFOs representing the hours and minutes.

The watch, which also includes floating asteroids for added visual flair, has been praised for its creativity and nostalgic appeal. Kris Holt, a writer who covers video games and word games, described the design as “very cool, if a little chaotic.” Holt, who purchased the watch, expressed excitement about wearing it alongside his Apple Watch, calling himself “the kind of dork” who would do so.

Connections, a popular daily word game from The New York Times, has also been a topic of discussion among gamers. The game, which challenges players to group 16 words into four categories based on shared connections, has gained a dedicated following since its launch. Players can access the game through the NYT website or the Games app, with new puzzles released daily at midnight.

Holt, who regularly provides hints and answers for Connections, emphasized the game’s appeal. “It’s a fun way to test your problem-solving skills and discover unexpected links between words,” he said. The game’s color-coded difficulty levels—yellow for easiest, blue and green for medium, and purple for hardest—add an extra layer of challenge.

For those struggling with the puzzles, Holt has set up a discussion group where players can share strategies and feedback. “I’m always interested to find out how other people approach the game,” he said. “It’s a great way to connect with fellow word game enthusiasts.”

The watch and the game both highlight the enduring influence of retro gaming culture. As Holt noted, “There’s something special about blending old-school gaming with modern design. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come—and how much fun we had along the way.”