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
See-through
"Anybody home?"
Winged horse of Greek myth
Salamander known for its regenerative abilities (and adorable appearance)
Down
Party snack made with cereal and pretzels
Gift with many interlocking pieces
Airline whose name comes from the Book of Hosea
Election loser
Stand-up comic's act
Command that uses the "V" key
Pulling their arms might win you money
Texting format, for short
Birthplace of bossa nova
Even score
Insect seen in Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory"
Directory abbr.
Metroid console, for short
See Also
Explore more daily puzzles and NYT game solutions.