Strands is a game that is now featured in the New York Times Games app, alongside other popular games like Wordle and Connections. Although it may not receive as much attention as its counterparts, Strands can be just as challenging and entertaining. The game recently moved out of beta, which may attract more fans to try it out. For those interested in playing Strands, the rules are simple yet require strategic thinking. Players are tasked with finding words related to a given theme, with the goal of uncovering all theme words and a special theme word called the spangram.
To play Strands, players must use the theme of the day to search for words that relate to that topic. When a word is found, players can drag or click on the letters in order and then click on the last letter twice to submit their guess. If a theme word is identified, it will light up in blue. Hint words, which are other words found in the puzzle, provide clues to the theme words. Finding three hint words will reveal a theme word, and if players are unable to unscramble it, finding three more hint words will highlight the theme word’s letters in order. The spangram, a special theme word that spans the entire puzzle, must also be discovered.
In each Strands puzzle, every letter on the board must be used either in a theme word or the spangram. Theme words fill the entire board and do not overlap. To assist players in solving the puzzle, in-game hints are available for unlocking by finding words with at least four letters. These words serve as clues to the theme words and can help players progress through the game. At times, players may encounter challenges in identifying the theme words, but with persistence and strategic thinking, they can complete the puzzle by uncovering all the answers, including the spangram.
The theme for each day’s Strands puzzle is provided to guide players in their search for words related to that topic. Additionally, players can leverage clue words to unlock in-game hints that reveal theme words. By finding words such as BEER, BEERY, SORE, ROSE, BONE, and others, players can uncover the hidden theme words and progress in the game. The completion of the puzzle requires players to discover all the theme words and the spangram, ensuring that every letter on the board is utilized in forming the solutions. With practice and perseverance, players can enhance their skills in playing Strands and enjoy the mental stimulation it offers.
As players engage with Strands, they are challenged to think critically and creatively to identify words that align with the given theme. By utilizing their vocabulary and problem-solving skills, players can piece together the puzzle by uncovering theme words and the spangram. Each completed puzzle provides a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, encouraging players to continue exploring the diverse themes and challenges presented in Strands. With its recent integration into the New York Times Games app, Strands offers players a unique and engaging gameplay experience that can captivate both seasoned puzzle enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
