Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns.

The New York Times published its first crossword puzzle, initiating a cultural shift towards puzzle-solving. Over the years, the NYT has introduced various puzzles and games, including the Mini Crossword and the global sensation Wordle.