For puzzle enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the latest challenge, today’s New York Times Connections puzzle offers a unique twist. On August 12, 2025, puzzle #793 presents a series of clues that might initially seem straightforward but are designed to test even the most seasoned players. The New York Times puzzle editors have once again crafted a brain-teaser that is sure to keep players on their toes.
The puzzle, which includes a variety of themes such as groups of ten and landmarks in downtown NYC, is part of the Times’ growing suite of engaging games. As players delve into the clues, they are encouraged to think beyond the obvious, a hallmark of the Times’ puzzle philosophy.
The Challenge of NYT Connections
The Connections puzzle is known for its clever misdirection, and today’s edition is no exception. Players might initially suspect a “bowling” category due to the abundance of related clues. However, the puzzle editors have cleverly avoided such predictability. Instead, the challenge lies in recognizing the less apparent connections between the clues.
Adding to the excitement, the Times has introduced a Connections Bot, akin to the one available for Wordle. This tool allows players to receive a numeric score and analyze their performance, offering insights into their puzzle-solving skills. Registered users can track their progress, including metrics such as win rate and streaks, further enhancing the competitive aspect of the game.
Today’s Connections Hints
For those seeking a nudge in the right direction, here are the hints for today’s puzzle, categorized by difficulty:
- Yellow group hint: 7, 8, 9…
- Green group hint: Stay in your ____.
- Blue group hint: The Big Apple.
- Purple group hint: Bagels and doughnuts also have these.
Revealing the Answers
For players who have exhausted their efforts, the answers to today’s puzzle are as follows:
- Yellow group: Groups of ten, including bowling pins, commandments, decade, and fingers.
- Green group: Places with lanes, featuring bowling alley, highway, supermarket, and swimming pool.
- Blue group: Landmarks in downtown NYC, such as Bowling Green, Brooklyn Bridge, City Hall, and Wall Street.
- Purple group: Things with holes, including bowling ball, colander, golf course, and sponge.
Strategies for Mastering Connections
To excel at the Connections puzzle, players can benefit from a few strategic tips:
- Tip #1: Say the clue words out loud, pausing before and after each. This technique helps in recognizing the words within a phrase context.
- Tip #2: Avoid the obvious groupings. The editors enjoy crafting puzzles with misleading clues. Consider using the “shuffle” button for a fresh perspective.
- Tip #3: Analyze compound words for similarities. For instance, “Rushmore” was once used in a puzzle where the connection was that each word began with the name of a rock band.
The Growing Popularity of NYT Games
The New York Times has long been a leader in providing intellectually stimulating puzzles, and the Connections puzzle is a testament to their innovative approach. As the game gains popularity, it reflects a broader trend of digital engagement with traditional puzzle formats. The Times’ ability to adapt and expand its offerings keeps it at the forefront of the puzzle community.
Looking ahead, players can anticipate more challenging puzzles and perhaps new features that further enhance the interactive experience. As the Times continues to innovate, the Connections puzzle remains a beloved fixture for puzzle aficionados worldwide.
