New York Times Expands Gaming Portfolio with Beta Testing of ‘Zorse,’ a Phrase-Guessing Game

The New York Times is expanding its successful gaming section with the introduction of Zorse, a new game currently in beta testing. According to a report from Semafor, Zorse is a phrase-guessing game that challenges players to solve puzzles featuring mashups of two familiar phrases. The concept is inspired by the hybrid animal “zorse,” a cross between a zebra and a horse, and applies the same blending idea to commonly known phrases. For example, a puzzle might combine two well-known phrases like “happy hour” and “rush hour” into something like “happy rush” or “rush hour” for players to decipher.

This new addition is part of The New York Times’ continued effort to enhance its popular gaming section, which already includes hits like Spelling Bee and Wordle. By introducing Zorse, the company aims to expand its gaming offerings, attracting new audiences who enjoy puzzle-solving and word games. As part of the ongoing beta test, the game will likely be refined based on user feedback before a broader release. With its proven track record in digital puzzles, the Times is seeking to further solidify its presence in the competitive online gaming space.