After Wordle gained popularity last year, The New York Times has managed once again to captivate the attention of millions of people with its growing collection of entertaining daily games and puzzles. Following the explosive success of Wordle, the Times released Connections on June 12, 2023, which is “a daily game about finding common threads between words,” according to their website. But let’s not forget the classics. Daily crosswords and sudokus have weathered the storm of trends and stick around as the elders of the gaming community, still played everyday. 

The interactive and user-friendly interface of the platform is another factor contributing to its widespread appeal. Many of the puzzles are also designed for shared enjoyment, encouraging players to collaborate and discuss solutions with family and friends. Turning it into a competition with your peers everyday is something that many look forward to, feeling satisfied that they finished The Mini in ten seconds less than their friend. As I look up in class each day, there are at least a few computer screens tuned in to Spelling Bee, Wordle or one of the other engaging games that the website has to offer. They could maybe rename their website to LOHS’ favorite class distraction! But, in all seriousness, these games have evolved beyond being mere class distractions. They are more than just a source of entertainment, they can also arguably be described as brain exercises with the often trick-to-solve puzzles and vocabulary words. 

From crosswords and sudoku to innovative new games designed exclusively for the platform, there’s something for everyone. So here’s to The New York Times – the unsung hero of sanity in the digital age.