The New York Times word game Connections has quickly become a favorite among puzzle enthusiasts, captivating players with its unique challenge of identifying common threads among words. Launched in June 2023, the game requires players to group 16 words into four categories, each containing four related words. As with its predecessor Wordle, Connections resets every midnight, offering fresh puzzles that keep players engaged and returning for more.
Today, on April 15, 2025, players are met with a particularly intriguing set of categories that promise to test their word association skills. According to the NYT, the game has gained traction largely due to the efforts of associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu, who played a significant role in its development. Liu's innovative approach has made Connections not just a game but a social media phenomenon as well, with players sharing their results and strategies online.
The premise of Connections is deceptively simple: players must find the thematic connection among four groups of four words without exceeding four mistakes. This challenge adds an element of strategy as players must think critically about the words presented to them. Each puzzle is designed to push the boundaries of players' vocabulary and associative thinking, making it a delightful mental exercise.
Today's puzzle is rated as a moderate challenge, with testers giving it a difficulty score of 3 out of 5. This rating suggests that while it may be accessible to many, it still offers enough complexity to engage seasoned solvers. Players can expect a mix of straightforward and tricky clues, as each category varies in difficulty.
For those who might be struggling, the NYT provides hints to assist players in navigating the puzzle. For the yellow category, the hint is "To pass up," while the green category relates to activities "Played at parties or laid-back gatherings." The blue category hints at themes found in "Oedipus, Antigone, etc.," and the purple category draws inspiration from "Parts of an iconic children's book." These clues help players focus their thoughts and strategies as they attempt to solve the puzzle.
As players dive into today’s Connections, they will find the following categories and their respective words:
- Yellow category (Desist): ABSTAIN, AVOID, CEASE, REFRAIN
- Green category (Card games): BRIDGE, HEARTS, SPEED, SPOON
- Blue category (Elements of Greek drama): CHORUS, HERO, HUBRIS, TRAGEDY
- Purple category (Second words of "Peter Pan" characters): BELL, DARLING, HOOK, PAN
These categories reflect a diverse range of topics, from legal terminology to classic literature, showcasing the breadth of knowledge that players can explore. The inclusion of words from Greek drama and children's literature not only adds depth to the game but also encourages players to think creatively about the connections they make.
For those looking for additional assistance, the NYT has established a Connections forum, where players can share their experiences, post their solve grids, and compare scores with others. This community aspect enhances the gameplay experience, allowing players to connect with one another and share strategies. The forum also serves as a platform for emotional support as players navigate the ups and downs of puzzling.
As the game continues to evolve, the NYT team is committed to keeping the content fresh and engaging. Players can look forward to daily updates, new categories, and evolving challenges that ensure no two puzzles are ever the same. This dedication to innovation has solidified Connections' place within the NYT Games section, alongside other popular offerings like Wordle and Spelling Bee.
In addition to the daily puzzles, the NYT’s Games team is active on social media, providing followers with solving tips, behind-the-scenes content, and insights into the puzzle-making process. This engagement not only keeps players informed but also fosters a sense of community among fans of the game.
As we wrap up today's puzzle, it’s important to remember that not every attempt will lead to success. Players are encouraged to embrace the challenge, learn from their mistakes, and return each day for a new opportunity to test their skills. The joy of Connections lies not only in finding the correct answers but also in the journey of exploration and discovery.
So whether you’re a seasoned solver or a newcomer to the game, today’s Connections puzzle awaits your attention. Dive in, make your guesses, and enjoy the thrill of uncovering the connections that bind these words together. And if you find yourself stumped, remember that there’s always tomorrow’s puzzle to look forward to!
