NYT Games Rolls Out Beta Testing for Zorse: A New Phrase Guessing Game

New Puzzle Game by NYT: Zorse

The New York Times (NYT) is currently beta testing an innovative puzzle game called Zorse. As reported by Semafor, this new game is designed for phrase guessing and incorporates a unique twist where every puzzle combines two different phrases.

Understanding Zorse

According to NYT spokesperson Jordan Cohen, the name "Zorse" creatively refers to the offspring of a zebra and another equine, hinting at the game's focus on clever wordplay. Presently, Zorse is being exclusively tested in Canada, leaving many fans eager to see if it will be available in other regions soon.

How Does Zorse Work?

The gameplay of Zorse shares similarities with games like Wheel of Fortune, but with a unique puzzle twist. Players start a new puzzle receiving a clue along with a series of blank tiles. These tiles will eventually reveal a phrase related to the initial clue:

• For instance, if the letter "H" is visible in two spots, it may hint towards the overall phrase.
• Players can click on a tile to reveal additional letters, with a limit of five reveals per puzzle.
• If you believe you know the phrase, you can enter your guess at any time during the game.

This engaging format is expected to captivate puzzle enthusiasts, especially those who relish the challenge of word games.

Player Experiences and Expectations

Although it is currently limited to Canadian players, reports from those who have tried Zorse suggest that it promises to be a fun addition to the NYT Games lineup. One of our Canadian colleagues, Andrew Webster, shared his excitement about the game, particularly as a fan of other NYT games such as Wordle and Connections.

The NYT Games Evolution

NYT has a history of beta testing new games. Previous offerings, like Strands, launched in beta earlier this year and became part of the NYT Games app in June. Conversely, the math-based puzzle game Digits saw an untimely end, having launched in April 2023 but shutting down shortly after due to challenges within the beta testing phase.

Additional Updates in NYT Games

In related news, NYT subscribers now have access to an archive of old Connections puzzles, allowing players to enjoy past challenges. Meanwhile, LinkedIn has also expanded its gaming options by introducing a new title called Tango.

Conclusion

With Zorse's engaging blend of wordplay and puzzle-solving, it could quickly find its place amongst the favorites in the NYT Games category. As fans await broader access, there’s hope that Zorse will deliver the enjoyable experience that the NYT is known for. Stay tuned for updates as this game rolls out!