Strands is a new word game by The New York Times that is currently in beta testing. Similar to Wordle and Connections, Strands challenges players to find hidden words within a grid of letters. The game requires players to use the theme of the puzzle to uncover words that fit the theme. By finding three words of four letters or more, players can reveal a theme word that ties into the overall puzzle. Additionally, there is a special theme word called a spangram that spans the entire puzzle, summarizing the theme. The goal is to find all the theme words and the spangram, using every letter on the board in either a theme word or the spangram.
Players can access Strands by going directly to the game website since it is still in beta and not yet available in The New York Times’ Games app. The game is reminiscent of old-fashioned Word Find books but with a twist, as there is no list of words provided, adding to the challenge and excitement of the gameplay. Each day, a new puzzle is released with a specific theme, and players must use that theme to search for related words within the grid. Finding three hint words will unlock a theme word, and ultimately, players must find all the theme words and the spangram to complete the puzzle successfully.
For players who may need some help with the daily Strands puzzle, there are clues and hints provided to guide them in the right direction. Words like PARE, BORE, TOLE, SPIN, BOWL, GLUE, KITS, and more can be helpful in unlocking theme words and progressing through the puzzle. The game rewards players for reaching certain milestones, such as finding three words of four letters or more, by revealing a theme word. This interactive and engaging gameplay mechanic keeps players motivated and immersed in the challenge of solving the puzzle.
Each day’s Strands puzzle features a specific theme related to words and phrases, providing a unique and engaging experience for players. By focusing on words that relate to the theme, players can uncover hidden words within the grid and work towards completing the puzzle. Finding the spangram, a special theme word that spans the entire puzzle, adds an additional layer of complexity and excitement to the gameplay. Players must use their word-finding skills and strategic thinking to unravel the puzzle and find all the necessary words to succeed.
As players progress through the Strands puzzle, they must use their knowledge of the theme and their vocabulary skills to uncover the hidden words. The game encourages players to explore different combinations of letters and think outside the box to find words that fit the theme. By solving the puzzle and completing all the theme words and the spangram, players demonstrate their ability to decipher and decode the letters within the grid. Strands offers a challenging and rewarding word game experience for players who enjoy solving puzzles and testing their linguistic skills.
