The New York Times Purchases Popular Word Game WORDLE

The New York Times Purchases Popular Word Game WORDLE

The New York Times has announced that it has purchased the popular word game Wordle. The game that you might have seen popping up on your social media feeds has been a surprise hit. The NYT announced that this deal will be worth the low seven figures and will bring the game to the official NYT website.

Wordle creator Josh Wardle also announced the news, saying:

“Since launching Wordle, I’ve been in awe of the response from everyone that has played. The game has gotten bigger than I ever imagined (which I suppose isn’t that much of a feat given I made the game for an audience of 1).

It has been incredible to watch a game bring so much joy to so many, and I feel so grateful for the personal stories some of you have shared with me – from Wordle uniting distant family members, to provoking friendly rivalries, to supporting medical recoveries.

On the flip side, I’d be lying if I said this hasn’t been a little overwhelming. After all, I am just one person, and it is important to me that, as Wordle grows, it continues to provide a great experience to everyone.

Given this, I am incredibly pleased to announce that I’ve reached an agreement with The New York Times for them to take over running Wordle going forward. If you’ve followed along with the story of Wordle, you’ll know that NYT games play a big part in its origins and so this step feels very natural to me.

I’ve long admired the NYT’s approach to their games and the respect with which they treat their players. Their values are aligned with mine on these matters and I’m thrilled that they will be stewards of the game moving forward.

When the game moves to the NYT site, it will be free to play for everyone, and I am working with them to make sure your wins and streaks will be preserved.

Thank you all for playing and making Wordle an unforgettable experience.”

NYT stated that this acquisition is part of their digital subscription growth strategy in which they hope that their games app along with their crosswords will attract more subscribers beyond those interested in their news service.

Source: NY Times