NYT launches Strands Archive for word search enthusiasts

In March of last year, The New York Times introduced a new word search game called Strands, which has since become popular among its subscribers. By September 2025, the game had grown to include more than 500 editions, showcasing the overwhelming interest and participation from the audience. To enhance user experience and accessibility, The New York Times has officially opened the Strands Archive, allowing subscribers who may have missed editions to catch up on the puzzles and continue enjoying the game. This archive is part of a broader initiative, which also includes archives for other games such as the NYT Crossword, Mini, Wordle, Connections, and Spelling Bee. The Strands Archive not only provides access to past games but also allows players to track their progress, including the number of grids completed, solve percentage, and current and maximum streaks. Users will find features that indicate how many puzzles were completed without hints and whether the spangram was the first word or phrase found. As the gaming landscape evolves, The New York Times aims to keep its community of word game fans engaged by continuing to develop and improve their gaming offerings. Furthermore, players can receive additional support through blog follow-ups, which offer more coverage and insights into Strands and other word games.