NYT Strands is a new word puzzle game released by the New York Times, where players are tasked with creating words from a 6-by-8 grid of letters. The objective is to find a set of words that have something in common.
A key feature of Strands is that it includes a ‘Spangram’ that describes the commonality between all the theme words. The first and last letters of the words must touch the opposite sides of the game board. Each puzzle contains 48 letters, which can be connected vertically, horizontally, and diagonally, with the ability to switch direction in the middle of a word.
This blog contains the hints, Spangram, and answers for the NYT Strands puzzle #477 of June 23, 2025. While the puzzle ain’t easy to solve, we have cracked it for you, walking you step-by-step through the whole game.
NYT Strands Answers June 23, 2025
“Breaking up the band” – Today’s theme brings a bit of nostalgia for music fans and shines a light on bands that made their mark before calling it quits.
ROCKGROUPS (Horizontal) – This horizontally placed word unlocks the rest of the puzzle. Players can ease their way into completing the game by finding the Spangram early.
SMASHING – Smashing Pumpkins, a legendary band known for their alt-rock music
CHEAP – Cheap Trick, a power-pop band
PUMPKINS – Rest of the name of the 90s rock band Smashing Pumpkins
TRICK – The second half of the name, Cheap Trick
TALKING – Talking Heads, an art rock band with a cult following
HEADS – The rest of the legendary band’s name.
What is the NYT Strands Game?
NYT Strands is a daily puzzle game released by The New York Times. It is one of the games part of the publication’s daily games collection, which includes NYT Connections and NYT Wordle.
The game challenges you to find six to eight hidden words from a 6×8 grid, where each letter can only be used once per word, making strategy and attention an essential part of gameplay. All words to be found are based on a theme, which will be provided as a hint.
Furthermore, there is one special word, called a Spangram, that stretches across the board and encapsulates the theme. This word is a vital clue that can guide you in completing the puzzle. Keep in mind that understanding the theme gives you an edge in NYT Strands.
How To Play NYT Strands: Tips and Strategies
To get started with NYT Strands, you must visit the New York Times website or app and head to the game section, from where you will select Strands. Then you will be directed to a screen with a grid filled with 48 random letters, where your goal is to find valid words related to the given theme.
Here are some tips to boost your overall performance and chances of winning the NYT Strands:]
- The daily theme is your biggest clue. Carefully observe the theme and refer to related material to find your answers
- Start by forming the shortest words, as they will unlock further hints
- The game will provide a clue after every non-theme word that you form
- Spotting the Spangram is crucial as it is the golden thread that ties all theme words together
- The letters can be connected vertically, horizontally, and diagonally, with the only criterion being that the first and last letters of any word must touch the opposite ends of the board.
