Connections Bot Scores Players Daily with AI Insights

The New York Times Games section has become a popular destination for online gamers, offering a variety of puzzles that challenge players' cognitive skills. Among these games is Connections, introduced in June 2023, where players must sort 16 words into four related categories. The game is designed to be engaging, with color-coded categories that add an extra layer of difficulty, particularly the purple category, which is the most challenging. On September 3, 2023, the Times launched the Connections Bot, a new feature that provides players with a numeric skill score based on their daily performance. This bot not only compares individual scores with those of other players but also utilizes AI to analyze players' thought processes during the game. For instance, if a player incorrectly groups words, the bot suggests possible reasoning behind their choices, enhancing the learning experience. The introduction of the Connections Bot represents the Times's first regular application of AI within its newsroom, following the success of the Wordle Bot, which attracts millions of visits monthly. This innovative approach aims to deepen player engagement and foster a competitive spirit among users. Players do not need a Times account to participate in Connections, but an account is required to access the bot. This development reflects the Times's commitment to integrating technology into its gaming offerings, providing players with valuable insights and enhancing their overall experience.