Connections 3x3 is a free, unlimited word puzzle inspired by NYT game you already know. Instead of a 4x4 grid with four categories, you get a smaller nine-word board: three hidden groups of three. It’s the same “aha” moment in a fraction of the time — most games take a minute or two, so it fits a coffee break, a commute or the gap between meetings.
How to play
Pick three tiles that share something, then hit Submit. Groups aren’t ranked by difficulty, and some words look like they belong in two places — that overlap is the whole puzzle. You get three mistakes. “One away” means two of your three tiles are right. Solve two groups and the last one falls into place automatically.
Unlimited puzzles, no waiting
There’s no daily limit and no countdown to midnight. When you finish a board — or if you just want a different one — press New game or Random and a fresh puzzle loads instantly. Every puzzle here is original and written for this site.
Tips for tricky boards
Start with the group you’re most certain about, and leave the ambiguous words for last. Use Shuffle when the grid stops looking fresh — a new arrangement often reveals a pairing you’d stopped seeing. Watch for fill-in-the-blank categories like “___ball” or “Snow___”, hidden words, and everyday terms used in an unexpected sense.
Free to play, no account needed
No sign-up, no ads, no trackers. Your progress and mistakes are stored only in your browser, so you can close the tab and pick up where you left off. Share your emoji result grid with a single tap when you’re done.