The New York Times Places Mini Crossword Behind Its Paywall After a Decade of Free Gameplay

The New York Times has placed its hit Mini Crossword game, which has existed for more than a decade, under a paywall.

The move was implemented on Wednesday, Aug. 27, The Florida Times-Union reported, citing the help section for the online game.

“The Mini Crossword is a smaller version of the New York Times Crossword puzzle and is available to anyone with a New York Times subscription that includes access to Games — All Access, Home Delivery, and Games subscriptions,” the website reads.

In a statement to PEOPLE, The New York Times executive director communications said, “With the launch of Pips earlier this month, we now offer 10 distinct puzzles, a rich and diverse portfolio that reflects both the breadth of gameplay and the depth of experiences our team of puzzle editors and constructors has built. With several games remaining free to play for all, our portfolio features a dynamic mix of free puzzles and subscriber-only offerings, creating opportunities for every kind of solver to engage with us, every day of the week.”

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!

“This decision reflects our belief that all of our journalism, including Games, is worth paying for. While we hope solvers will see the value in subscribing, we’re committed to ensuring there’s still a rich and enjoyable experience for those who don’t,” they continued.

According to the Times-Union, regular players have turned to Reddit to express their displeasure. “Just obliterated my morning routine,” one Mini Crossword fan wrote in response to the game’s move behind the paywall, while another simply put, “Day ruined.”

In August, the Times reported nearly 12 million subscribers to its products, including print and digital, and hopes to reach 15 million subscribers by the conclusion of 2027.