New York Times Connections #981: Hints and Answers for February 16, 2026
The latest installment of the New York Times’ popular word game, Connections, presented a fresh challenge to players on . The game, which has quickly become a daily ritual for many, tasks players with grouping 16 words into four categories based on shared connections. As the game’s popularity grows, so does the difficulty, prompting many to seek hints and solutions.
Connections, created with the help of associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu, is playable on both web browsers and mobile devices. The objective is straightforward: identify the common threads linking four words within a set of 16. Each correct grouping eliminates those words from the board. Players are allowed up to four incorrect guesses before the game ends. A key feature is the ability to rearrange and shuffle the board, aiding in the discovery of connections.
The puzzle is designed with a tiered difficulty system, indicated by color-coding. Yellow represents the easiest connections, followed by green, blue and the most challenging, purple. This color-coding provides a subtle guide for players, suggesting where to focus their efforts. Like Wordle, players can share their results on social media, adding to the game’s communal aspect.
For those struggling with today’s puzzle (#981), several resources offer assistance. Hints and clues are available to nudge players in the right direction without revealing the answers outright. However, if a player prefers to know the solutions directly, they are readily accessible as well.
The game’s appeal lies in its simplicity and the mental agility it requires. It’s a daily exercise in pattern recognition and vocabulary, offering a satisfying sense of accomplishment when a challenging connection is finally made. The increasing difficulty ensures that even seasoned players remain engaged, constantly refining their strategies and approaches.
Connections has resonated with a broad audience, becoming a significant part of the New York Times’ Games section. Its success is a testament to the enduring popularity of word puzzles and the appeal of a daily mental challenge. The game’s format encourages repeated play, fostering a dedicated community of solvers who eagerly anticipate each new puzzle.
The game’s creator, the New York Times, credits the game’s popularity to its engaging format and the clever design of each puzzle. The challenge isn’t simply about knowing the definitions of words, but about understanding the subtle relationships between them. This requires a different kind of thinking than many other word games, making Connections a unique and rewarding experience.
As players continue to tackle Connections #981 and beyond, the game promises to remain a popular source of daily entertainment and mental stimulation. The combination of challenging puzzles, a user-friendly interface, and a vibrant community ensures that Connections will continue to captivate word game enthusiasts for the foreseeable future.
