The New York Times Mini Crossword may be small, but it’s designed to catch you off guard.
Unlike its full-sized cousin, the Mini forces you to think quickly. It packs a sharp mental workout into a compact 5x5 grid, ideal for short breaks.
A tiny puzzle doesn't mean it’s always easy.
When you’re stuck on a clue, our daily hints and answers will help keep the momentum going.
Where to Play
You can play the Mini Crossword on the New York Times website, the NYT Games app, or within the Play tab of the main News app.
Past puzzles are available to Games and All Access subscribers.
When the Puzzle Drops
How It Works
Fill the grid by solving Across and Down clues. You’ll know you’ve solved it correctly when music plays and a congratulatory message appears.
There’s no streak feature like Wordle, but you can track your solve time and compete with friends on the Mini leaderboard.
Game Features and Shortcuts
Across
Tiered temples
"Journey" that a narcissist goes on
What might have a glazed look?
"We have an agreement"
Bathroom brand with bears in its commercials
Public image
Down
Lively spirit
"Once upon a time, a few mistakes ___ ..." (Taylor Swift lyric)
Turned to night
Playful river swimmers
"Like THAT will ever happen!"
Southwest, e.g.
Someone using a hidden camera or signal jammer
Tax filing pro, for short
She/___
Folksy thumbs-down
Boat boarded by beasts
Still sealed in the container
See Also
Explore more daily puzzles and NYT game solutions.