US EditionNew York Times angers readers with mini crossword paywall
The New York Times aims to grow its subscriber base with a $6 monthly games package, causing backlash as the Mini Crossword, played by hundreds of thousands daily, now requires subscription.
- On Wednesday, Aug. 27, The New York Times placed its hit Mini Crossword behind a paywall, limiting access to subscribers on its online games platform.
- To support its subscription strategy, The New York Times offers the NYT Games subscription at $6 per month or $50 per year, expanding its portfolio to 10 puzzles with a mix of free and subscriber-only games.
- The Mini, usually 5x5 and quick, saw thousands of daily players turn to hints on Thursday, August 28, 2025, after access to The New York Times Mini Crossword changed.
- Public reaction was overwhelmingly negative, with Mini Crossword players venting on Reddit and X, including one who said, `I hope whoever locked the NYT Mini Crossword behind a subscription has warm pillows the rest of their miserable lives`.
- With nearly 12 million subscribers, The New York Times aims for 15 million by 2027 while readers can find free Mini-style puzzles from LA Times and Mashable, which offers an $18-per-year Games deal.
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The New York Times paywalled the Mini Crossword, and the internet is in shambles
Bad news for morning routines everywhere: The New York Times has put its Mini Crossword behind a paywall. On Tuesday, instead of their usual puzzle, players were met with a paywall. The internet is not taking it well. “I’m actually in such a rage over this,” said TikTok user @ssophieice. “Screw New York Times. Screw capitalism. I’m done.” @ssophieice This was my final straw #nyt #nytminicrossword #minicrossword ♬ original sound – sophie ice Mea…
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Total News Sources12
Leaning Left7Leaning Right2Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution58% Left
Bias Distribution
- 58% of the sources lean Left
58% Left
L 58%
C 25%
R 17%
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