New York Times Debuts the Midi Crossword, Its In-Between Puzzle

The new puzzle offers a challenge between the quick Mini and the lengthy Daily crossword.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The New York Times has introduced a new digital-only crossword puzzle called the Midi Crossword, which is designed to provide a challenge between the quick Mini Crossword and the lengthy Daily crossword. The Midi Crossword is a 9-by-9 or 11-by-11 puzzle that features themes and may occasionally include two-letter words and repeating answers.

Why it matters

The new Midi Crossword is an attempt by the New York Times to cater to puzzlers who find the Mini Crossword too easy but the Daily crossword too time-consuming. It provides an in-between option for those seeking a slightly more challenging puzzle experience.

The details

The Midi Crossword is available exclusively through the New York Times Games app and website for subscribers. It is not printed in the newspaper. The puzzle will sometimes feature visual effects like animations or colorful shading when starting or completing the puzzle. Unlike the Mini Crossword, the Midi typically has 9-by-9 or 11-by-11 grids with more clues and answers.

  • The Midi Crossword was introduced in February 2026.

The players

New York Times Games

The games and puzzles division of The New York Times newspaper, which oversees the development and release of digital puzzles like the Midi Crossword.

Ian Livengood

The puzzle editor for The New York Times Games, who was responsible for the creation and launch of the Midi Crossword.

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What they’re saying

“We're really leaning into the digital-first nature of the puzzle. About once a week, the puzzle will have a visual effect -- an extra flourish when you start or after you solve. This could be a cool animation or colorful shading.”

— Ian Livengood, Puzzle Editor, The New York Times Games (The New York Times)

“If you feel like the Mini is not enough but the Daily is too much, this will be the perfect puzzle for you.”

— Ian Livengood, Puzzle Editor, The New York Times Games (The New York Times)

What’s next

The New York Times plans to continue developing and refining the Midi Crossword, potentially adding new features and visual effects in the future to enhance the puzzle-solving experience for subscribers.

The takeaway

The introduction of the Midi Crossword demonstrates the New York Times' commitment to providing a diverse range of digital puzzle options to cater to different skill levels and preferences among its loyal puzzling community.