The New York Times has introduced a new version of their Connections puzzle game, called Connections: Sports Edition. This new version focuses on sports-related words and categories, providing a fun challenge for sports fans. The game is currently in beta testing, allowing players to try it out for free before a decision is made on whether to make it a permanent addition to the site’s Games app. The rules of the game are similar to the regular Connections game, with players given 16 words to group into categories based on their sports tie-ins.
In order to play Connections: Sports Edition, players must group the given words into four categories that are somehow connected through a sports-related theme. The game includes words related to players, teams, and sport-related activities, requiring players to have some knowledge of a variety of sports and athletes. The difficulty levels of the four groups of words range from easiest (yellow) to hardest (purple), with players only finding out the level of difficulty after solving the puzzle. The game aims to challenge players by using sports-related words that can fit into multiple groups, adding an element of trickery.
Even though Connections: Sports Edition is geared towards sports fans, players do not need to be sports experts to enjoy and solve the puzzles. The game offers a fun and engaging way to test one’s knowledge of different sports while also providing a mental challenge. Players can enjoy solving the daily puzzles and discovering the connections between the sports-related words in each group. Hints are provided for each group, ranging from easy to difficult, to assist players in solving the puzzle and ultimately completing the game.
The completed puzzle for a specific day featured different themes for each group of words. The yellow group focused on tennis grand slams, with answers such as Australian, French, US, and Wimbledon. The green group centered on American gold medal-winning gymnasts, with answers like Biles, Douglas, Lee, and Liukin. The blue group highlighted famous sports “curses,” including answers like Bambino, Billy Goat, Drake, and SI cover. Lastly, the purple group revolved around the theme of “____ United,” with answers like Atlanta, DC, Manchester, and Newcastle.
Overall, Connections: Sports Edition offers a unique and entertaining twist on the classic Connections puzzle game, catering to sports enthusiasts and puzzle lovers alike. With its focus on sports-related words and categories, the game provides a challenging and engaging experience for players looking to test their knowledge and problem-solving skills. Whether you’re a sports fanatic or just looking for a fun puzzle game to enjoy, Connections: Sports Edition is worth trying out to see if you can solve the daily challenges and discover the connections between different sports-related words.
