Since the launch of the Crossword in 1942, The Times has captivated solvers by providing engaging word and logic games. In 2014, we introduced the Mini Crossword — followed by Spelling Bee, Letter Boxed, Tiles, Wordle, Connections and more. We strive to offer puzzles for all skill levels that everyone can enjoy playing every day.

Since the New York Times paywalled its mini crossword, SFGATE's culture reporter Timothy Karoff has been bringing his solving chops to the California Mini — snagging a spot on our staff leaderboard five times.