Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan-following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

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.