An Ode to the New York Times games

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Across
  1. 2. Studies have shown that solving puzzles improves cognitive function, enhances memory, and can even delay the onset of dementia.
  2. 4. The reward of finishing, however, is unparalleled – a quiet, personal victory that fosters a deep sense of accomplishment and a boost of dopamine, the brain's feel-good chemical.
  3. 6. The New York Times crossword, first published in 1942, became a daily fixture, renowned for its complexity and mix of clever clues and cultural references.
  4. 7. In recent years, the introduction of games like Spelling Bee and BLANK has expanded The Times' reach, creating a new generation of solvers eager to test their skills.
Down
  1. 1. Solving these puzzles isn't just about intellectual exercise – it's about the ritual.
  2. 3. Puzzling enhances BLANK and general knowledge and hones pattern recognition and lateral thinking.
  3. 5. The first time I did an NYT crossword, I was around ten, visiting my grandparents' house.
  4. 6. Whether the shared challenge of solving the world's daily puzzle or the friendly competition of comparing the mini crossword times, these games have carved out a niche in modern digital life.