Crossword Lovers in Mourning as the New York Times Paywalls the Mini Puzzle
The New York Times' decision to paywall the Mini crossword has left many feeling betrayed. Once a simple and enjoyable diversion, the Mini was accessible to all, serving as a moment of joy in daily routines. "Miserable buggers. It was tiny and not particularly great, but it was something..." This abrupt change exemplifies the endless march of enshittification in the gaming industry. - The stages of grief are palpable in Reddit threads. - Users express denial, anger, and even bargaining. Many are reconsidering their relationship with the Times, questioning if it's worth a subscription for just a few minutes of nostalgia. While other alternatives exist, the Mini was a familiar comfort, now replaced by a profit-driven model. In a world where every moment is monetized, the loss feels particularly poignant.