NYT Games’ Scrabble-like game Crossplay is a dream come true

For avid word game enthusiasts, the dream of a distraction-free multiplayer experience has finally arrived. New York Times Games has launched Crossplay, a new app that allows players to engage in a Scrabble-like experience without the clutter of invasive advertisements. Available for both iOS and Android, Crossplay is designed for casual gamers, offering a delightful platform to challenge friends or connect with players at a similar skill level. While Crossplay is not an exact replica of Scrabble, it captures the essence of the beloved game. Minor adjustments in the game board layout and tile distribution may be present, likely for legal reasons, but casual players are unlikely to notice these differences. NYT Games subscribers can enjoy the game completely ad-free, while free users will encounter some banner ads—still a more appealing option than the costly ad removal in other popular word games. One standout feature of Crossplay is the CrossBot, which analyzes gameplay to suggest better moves and rank players based on strategy and luck. This feature echoes the success of previous NYT Games like Wordle and Spelling Bee, which have captivated users with their engaging and straightforward gameplay. Since acquiring Wordle in 2022, the New York Times has seen a surge in its digital gaming audience, with users spending more time in the Games app than in the News app by the end of 2023. Jonathan Knight, Head of Games at the NYT, emphasizes the importance of creating games that respect players' time while fostering connections with friends and family. With statistics showing that Wordle was played 4.2 billion times in 2025, it’s clear that the demand for simple yet engaging games continues to thrive. Knight's vision for Crossplay aligns with the NYT’s mission to offer enjoyable gaming experiences free from unnecessary distractions. The goal is to allow players to immerse themselves in a game and then seamlessly transition back into their daily lives. As the gaming landscape evolves, Crossplay stands out as a refreshing option for word enthusiasts looking to engage with friends and family in a low-pressure environment.