Connections vs Crosswordle: Which Daily Logic Word Game Wins?
With the constantly growing popularity of daily logic word games in the world, more and more people are drawn to their casual yet engaging gameplay. This became more apparent when the Wordle®* boom took off in early 2022, and companies like The New York Times published many titles that cater to a wider audience.
However, are big names like Connections and Wordle the only ones that offer that quick yet entertaining experience? Definitely not, as there are so many daily games that provide the same, if not better, gameplay—like our very own Crosswordle. So if you’re looking for another fun word game to play, it’s a great choice to start with!
But is Crosswordle good enough to rival a game like Connections?
Why compare these two games in particular?
There are many word games available on the market, but not all of them fall into the same categories. For example, a speed-typing game heavily relies on words, but it isn't in the same skill field as Connections or Crosswordle as it's more of a reflex-based game than a logic puzzle game.
What about jigsaw puzzles? It works heavily on logic, right? Well, that kind of game relies more on visual prowess and spatial skill to determine pieces that fit into each other. It also doesn't employ scenarios where you deduce things based on letters.
These two games fill the same kind of tickboxes that most people in the word game space look for:
| Criteria | Connections | Crosswordle |
|---|---|---|
| Daily reset | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Letter-based gameplay | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Logic over luck | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Browser + mobile friendly | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Quick mental workout | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Easy to share results | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
What is Connections?
Developed and published by The New York Times, this game was released in June 2023. It is a word-matching puzzle; your objective is to group the given sixteen different terms based on logic or relation. For example, words like “DIRT”, “APPLE”, “MANURE” and “FARMER” can be grouped together and be identified under the theme or category of “Farmland”.
These categories are color-coded based on their apparent difficulty, ranging from obvious ties to downright obscure relations. Yellow is easy, green is of average difficulty, blue is challenging and purple is the hardest.
You’re afforded four mistakes, and the whole game revolves around word logic and vocabulary range. Currently, it rules as the second most-played game in the NYT Games’ catalogue.
What is Crosswordle?
Crosswordle is the ultimate hybrid word puzzle of crossword and Wordle. Combining the good parts of the gameplay of both, it offers a unique yet familiar gaming experience that is welcoming for both newcomers and long-time word game enthusiasts. You’re given a puzzle with letters and words arranged like a crossword, and the letters have a color-based feedback system like that of Wordle.
Green letters mean those are in the correct position. Yellow letters mean those are in the right row or column, but in the wrong order. Grey letters mean that they're incorrect, move them to the right word and they'll change color.
To solve it, you’ll have to swap around the letters in each row or column to form words. Every Crosswordle puzzle has a limited number of available swaps, providing the challenging difficulty that a daily game player needs to exercise their mind. The game ends when you run out of swaps or all the target words are formed. It is currently one of the most played games in the Hey, Good Game selection.
First to final row: Connections vs. Crosswordle
Here’s a quick overview of the facts and features of both games to help you choose the right game for you:
| Feature | Connections | Crosswordle |
|---|---|---|
| Free-to-play | ⚠️Limited — daily only, archive paywalled Daily only (archive behind NYT subscription) |
✅Yes |
| Free Daily Mode | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Daily Reset | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Stat Tracking | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| Unlimited Play | ❌No — paywalled Paywalled archive |
✅Yes |
| Skill Focus | Deduction + vocabulary | Logic + vocabulary + sequencing |
| Difficulty Level | Varies by category | Consistently moderate |
| Lose Condition | 4 wrong groups | 0 swaps left |
| Average Playtime | 1–10 min (vocabulary-dependent) | 3–5 min (logic-dependent) |
5 reasons to try Crosswordle first
Both games have something unique to offer and are very entertaining and engaging to play.
While Connections is a big name in the word game industry for its easy-to-understand system, it has inherent flaws that can make it frustrating or downright unenjoyable to play.
Crosswordle, however, is more consistent and generally more approachable as a game.
Here are the key reasons why we think it’s better to play Crosswordle instead!
- Pure logic, less vocab stress. Every clue is visible; no guessing arcane slang.
- Familiar feedback. Wordle fans will recognise green & yellow tiles instantly.
- Consistent difficulty. Each puzzle offers an easy, medium, and hard word—no wild swings.
- Depth for perfectionists. There’s always an optimal six‑star solution—the perfect score.
- Completely free & unlimited. Daily + Practice modes with no paywall.
Quick tips for new Crosswordle players
- Start with the obvious word. Lock in greens early.
- Mind your swaps. Each unused swap = one star.
- Warm‑up in Practice Mode. Protect your daily streak.
- Create a free account. Track stats & join the leaderboard.
FAQ
Is Crosswordle part of NYT Games?
No, Crosswordle is an independent game and is not connected to Wordle, Spelling Bee, Tiles, or any other New York Times game. Wordle is a registered trademark of The New York Times and has no affiliation with Crosswordle.
Can I replay past Crosswordle puzzles ?
As of the moment, no. However, we are planning to implement an archive system for everyone, so stay tuned!
Which game is easier?
Crosswordle is easier than Connections, as it relies more on letter and word logic than vocabulary. Crosswordle also give you two more chances to win the game.
Which game is harder?
Connections is harder than Crosswordle due to its nature as a matching/guessing game. However, this difficulty can lead to frustration if the terms and word categories are too obscure.
Join us and play Crosswordle and more games today!
We hope that our article has helped you become more confident in choosing Crosswordle as a game you can play from day to day.
Not feeling confident about your skills? Don't worry! All puzzle solvers begin somewhere, and if you're looking for people to ask advice from or just share word games with, join our Discord!
Ready to test your logic?
Play today's Crosswordle
*Wordle is a registered trademark of the New York Times and is not affiliated with Crosswordle in any way.