Connections, a word game launched by The New York Times in June 2023, has quickly become a favorite among players. Unlike the popular game Wordle, which requires players to find one word a day, Connections challenges players to group words into categories based on common threads. The game tasks players with grouping 16 words into four categories, each labeled with a color signifying its difficulty level. The puzzles are designed to be challenging, often using wordplay and homophones to keep players engaged.
The familiarity of the words used in Connections and their frequency in modern language play a role in the game’s difficulty. Less common words are incorporated in the game but are not exclusive to the harder categories, adding an element of surprise. Another aspect that tests players in Connections is the concept of “item overlap,” where one word can be linked to multiple categories. Players can shuffle the words on the screen if they get stuck, allowing for a fresh perspective on the puzzle.
Wyna Liu, a crossword editor at The New York Times who was tasked with developing Connections, provided tips for playing the game. She advises players to wait before guessing and to not rush into selecting words for a category prematurely. The delay in guessing allows players to make informed decisions and avoid wasting turns. Liu also cautions against “rage solving,” a term she uses for impulsive guessing. The game continues to challenge players with its clever word associations and engaging gameplay.
Each day, new clues and answers are provided for that day’s Connections puzzle. Players can test their skills by guessing the categories and words based on the clues provided. For example, a recent puzzle featured categories like “Spoken Communication,” “Canoodle,” “First Aid Kit Items,” and “House Styles,” each with a unique set of words. Players can check their answers against the revealed solutions at the end of the article to see if they cracked the puzzle correctly. The game is released daily at midnight in the player’s local time zone, providing a fresh challenge every day.
Connections has gained popularity as an online sensation, drawing in players with its unique gameplay and challenging puzzles. The game offers a refreshing twist on word games, requiring players to think creatively and make connections between words. With its mix of familiar and less common words, as well as clever wordplay techniques, Connections keeps players engaged and entertained. Whether players are looking to test their word skills or simply enjoy a challenging puzzle, Connections offers a fun and engaging gaming experience for all.
