New York Times Launches NYT Strands Puzzle Amid Growing Popularity

NEW YORK, Feb. 25, 2025 — The New York Times has expanded its popular puzzle offerings with the launch of NYT Strands, a daily word game that challenges players with themed word puzzles. The game debuted in 2025 and adds to an established lineup that includes the Mini Crossword, Spelling Bee, and Wordle.

NYT Strands features a distinct format where players identify words based on a daily theme. On February 25, the theme is ‘Life is like a box of chocolates.’ Each puzzle presents a special Spangram—a word that spans the grid, offering an additional layer of challenge to players of all skill levels.

The history of crossword puzzles in the New York Times dates back to February 15, 1942, when it published its first crossword, developed by Charles Erlenkotter and edited by Margaret Farrar. This marked the NYT as the first major newspaper to feature a crossword puzzle. The paper continued to innovate in the puzzle space, introducing new games like the Mini Crossword in 2014, and acquiring the viral sensation Wordle in 2022.

“With NYT Strands, we wanted to create a fun and engaging way for players to test their vocabulary and strategic thinking,” said an NYT Games representative. “The blend of our existing game formats into one new challenge was meant to appeal to both new players and seasoned puzzle enthusiasts.”

To play NYT Strands, users are presented with a 6 x 8-inch grid of letters. The objective is to create words by connecting letters in horizontal, vertical, or diagonal directions. Players start by identifying the central theme related to today’s puzzle.

The game is played with 48 letters on the grid, and players are encouraged to uncover theme-related words hidden within. Once all related words are found, the puzzle is deemed complete. The ease of gameplay and the thematic focus attract a diverse audience eager for daily brain teasers.

“Strands is a perfect way to combine leisure with cognitive challenges,” added the NYT spokesperson. “It’s designed for everyone, from casual players to avid crossword aficionados.”

For those who struggle with the daily puzzles, hints and puzzle solutions are often shared online, making it accessible to a broader audience.

As NYT Strands joins the ranks of other successful games in the New York Times portfolio, it further cements the publication’s reputation as a leader in interactive entertainment, attracting a growing number of users eager to solve brain teasers every day.