The New York Times Mini Crossword offers puzzle lovers a quick and enjoyable way to challenge their minds without dedicatring extensive time. On January 28, 2025, players around the globe took on this bite-sized version of the traditional crossword, seeking to outsmart clever clues and solve them efficiently. Designed for enthusiasts who appreciate both simplicity and wit, the Mini spans just 5x5 squares and is distinctively fun.
Today’s challenge included four Across questions and five Down questions, each promising to test players’ wordplay skills and cultural knowledge. The charm of The Mini lies not just in its size, but also its thoughtful clues. For those who encountered tricky clues or found themselves stumped mid-game, here’s the guide to solving the January 28, 2025, NYT Mini Crossword.
Clues: Across
- 1 Across: Magic accessory for Gandalf the Grey — STAFF
- 6 Across: Item often cut with a pocket-sized guillotine cutter — CIGAR
- 7 Across: Fill with awe — AMAZE
- 8 Across: Flood stopper — LEVEE
- 9 Across: Words repeated in "Any ___ is good ___" — PRESS
Clues: Down
- 1 Down: Top of the head — SCALP
- 2 Down: Track meet official — TIMER
- 3 Down: Plant used to make tequila — AGAVE
- 4 Down: Flusters — FAZES
- 5 Down: Saves from jail in Capture the Flag, say — FREES
The attention to detail inherent within each clue reflects the creativity and wit expected from NYT puzzles. For example, the answer to 1 Across, STAFF, perfectly alludes to fantasy lore known to fans of J.R.R. Tolkien. Likewise, 3 Down, AGAVE, dives deep to identify the base ingredient of the beloved Mexican spirit, tequila.
For puzzlers hoping to improve their completion times, here are some tips and insights: First, knowing the release schedule is key, as Mini Crosswords become available daily at their designated times—10 PM ET on weekdays and 6 PM ET on weekends. Players often find Mondays the easiest, as weekday puzzles typically increase in complexity as the week progresses.
The NYT Mini Crossword is not merely about finishing; it’s about enjoying the thrill of solving. With engaging clues and answers like those seen today, the Mini maintains its beloved status among word game fans. Players invest only minutes of their time, making it easy to incorporate the puzzle as part of their daily rituals.
For those adventurous souls seeking more engagement, the NYT Games section includes various options such as Wordle, Connections, and Strands—providing countless opportunities to challenge their intellects.
Regardless of experience level, participants can delight in the fresh thrills every day. So here’s to today’s completed Mini Crossword! With research proving the brain benefits from puzzles, the NYT’s resources offer the ideal outlet for those seeking mental stimulation.
Get ready for tomorrow’s challenge and happy solving!