NYT Strands Puzzle Gains Popularity with Daily Challenges

The New York Times' Strands, a new word puzzle, offers daily challenges with unique themes and a special 'spangram' word.

Strands is a modern take on word search puzzles, featuring a daily changing grid and theme.
Players must identify theme words and a special word called a 'spangram' that links two opposite sides of the board.
Hints are available after finding three non-theme words, helping to reveal parts of the puzzle.
Recent puzzles have included themes like 'in your head' with words like 'daydream' and 'illusion', and 'signing off' with words like 'cheers' and 'regards'.
The puzzle's difficulty varies daily, with some days focusing on synonyms or homophones, adding an element of surprise.