Crossword fans are in a state of despair as the New York Times has newly locked its Mini Crossword behind a paywall. This simple yet delightful puzzle was previously a free feature, offering a quick mental challenge for many, but now has become an exclusive offering only available to subscribers. This unexpected decision has sparked an outcry within the crossword community.

An online commenter lamented, “Miserable buggers. It was tiny and not particularly great, but it was something in this godforsaken capitalist hellscape.” The change has found resonance on platforms like Reddit, where users are voicing their feelings about losing a cherished part of their daily routine.

As the NYT pushes to turn its puzzle offerings into lucrative ventures, fans are left grappling with the shift to a paid model for content that had previously been enjoyed for free.