Step aside, Wordle, Connections, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new word game taking the spotlight at The New York Times. Introducing the increasingly popular game, Strands, where players can dive into daily themes and unravel spangrams for a thrilling challenge. It’s the latest must-try activity to add to your daily routine, providing a satisfying puzzle to conquer before the next one emerges 24 hours later.
How does one play Strands, you ask? The rules are simple yet engaging. Participants must find theme words that fill the board while staying highlighted in blue upon discovery. Letters can be dragged or tapped to form words, with a double-tap on the final letter to submit. The goal is to fill the board entirely with theme words that do not overlap. Additionally, players must uncover the spangram, a clue that describes the puzzle’s theme and connects two opposite sides of the board, highlighted in yellow once found.
In today’s edition of Strands, the theme is “That’s just reality (TV),” providing players with a hint that reads, “Show with plenty of trickery.” Spoiler alert: the puzzle contains six theme words to uncover, including the spangram. The first two letters of each word are: CA, SH, MI, FA, BA, and TH (spangram).
As for the spangram hint, it’s a mix of both vertical and horizontal for an added layer of challenge. The answer to today’s Spangram on the Thursday, January 8 edition of NYT ‘Strands’ Hints is revealed to be THETRAITORS.
To solve the entire puzzle, players must uncover words like CASTLE, SHIELD, MISSION, FAITHFUL, and BANISHMENT, in addition to the spangram THETRAITORS. With each word hint revealing more of the puzzle’s theme, players can test their word skills and unravel the mystery behind each daily challenge.
In a world where word games reign supreme, Strands proves to be a refreshing addition to The New York Times game lineup. Embrace the challenge, sharpen your vocabulary, and immerse yourself in the addictive world of Strands—the game that keeps you coming back for more.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.