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Early on Christmas Eve in 2024, a NASA craft swooped at blazing speed through the sun's atmosphere.

The Parker Solar Probe, equipped with a robust heat shield, made the closest-ever approach to our dynamic star, coming some 3.8 million miles (6.1 million kilometers) from the stellar surface. That's seven times closer than any other probe. The mission is designed to fly into the sun's corona, or outer atmosphere, which spawns many of the powerful solar storms and weather that impact Earth.

To understand our star's behavior, a craft had to go where no craft had gone before.

"It's really exciting," Nour Raouafi, an astrophysicist at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and project scientist for the mission, told Mashable. "The sun is like a laboratory to us."

Though the lab announced the craft made the historic flyby on Christmas Eve, the probe will be in position to send a beacon tone to Earth on Dec. 27, which will confirm its safety.

SEE ALSO: NASA scientist viewed first Voyager images. What he saw gave him chills.

To make this record-breaking pass, the nearly 10-foot-long probe has made 22 orbits around the sun, allowing it to swoop ever deeper into the corona. And while doing so, the spacecraft has been continually picking up speed. When you repeatedly swing by such a massive and gravitationally powerful object — the sun is a sphere of hot gas 333,000 times as massive as our planet — you accrue lots of speed. Out in space, there's nothing to stop this motion.

On this close flyby, the probe reached some 430,000 miles per hour (692,000 kilometers per hour).

"It's the fastest human-made object ever."

"That's like going from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C. in one second," marveled Raouafi. "It's fascinating. It's the fastest human-made object ever."

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The spacecraft can survive such an extreme plunge into the corona because it's fitted with a robust heat shield designed to withstand intense solar radiation. The shield itself, which is eight feet (2.4 meters) in diameter and 4.5 inches (nearly 12 centimeters) thick, heats up to some 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit, but just a couple of feet behind the shield, the environs are surprisingly pleasant. The instruments operate at round room temperature.

Why Parker Solar Probe swooped into the sun

In 2022, the probe flew into "one of the most powerful coronal mass ejections (CMEs) ever recorded," NASA explained. A CME is the eruption of a mass of super hot gas (plasma) into space.

Raouafi hopes it happens again. (The sun is in an active state, so the odds are about as good as they get.)

When the sun unleashes an explosion of energy and particles, the corona accelerates these particles. Such solar storms have huge implications for our energy grids and communications systems on Earth, as well as for astronauts in space — particularly as NASA prepares to return astronauts to the moon, and eventually, beyond.

"That's why we want to fly through regions where these particles are accelerated," Raouafi said. "We want to understand how the acceleration is done."

The Parker Solar Probe's instruments. Credit: Johns Hopkins APL / NASA The green lines show the Parker Solar Probe's trajectory around the sun since 2018. The green dot shows its position as of Dec. 23, 2024. Credit: Johns Hopkins APL

The Parker solar probe's researchers expect the spacecraft, fitted with instruments to measure and image the solar wind (a constant stream of charged particles emanating from the corona), will enable us to better forecast when and where a potent CME or solar flare may hit.

For example, when a CME erupts from the sun's surface, it must travel over 92 million miles to reach Earth. Along the way, this hot gas will "pile up" the solar wind ahead of it.

"That will affect its arrival time to Earth," Raouafi explained. Knowledge about these space dynamics is critical: A good space weather forecast would allow power utilities to temporarily shut off power to avoid conducting a power surge from a CME, and potentially blowing out power to millions.

Infamously, in 1989, a potent solar flare-associated CME knocked out power to millions in Québec, Canada. The CME hit Earth's magnetic field on March 12 of that year, and then, wrote NASA astronomer Sten Odenwald, "Just after 2:44 a.m. on March 13, the currents found a weakness in the electrical power grid of Quebec. In less than two minutes, the entire Quebec power grid lost power. During the 12-hour blackout that followed, millions of people suddenly found themselves in dark office buildings and underground pedestrian tunnels, and in stalled elevators." The same solar event fried a $10 million transformer at Salem Nuclear Power Plant in New Jersey.

"Hopefully we'll see something that surprises us quite a bit."

Following this Christmas Eve journey through the corona, the probe has two more planned passes in March and June 2025 that will bring it a similar distance to the sun. This is true exploration into uncharted territory, a place where scientists seek the unexpected.

"Hopefully we'll see something that surprises us quite a bit," Raouafi said.

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

To become less clear.

SEE ALSO: Mini crossword answers for December 24 Hurdle Word 1 answer

CLOUD

Hurdle Word 2 hint

Coffee with espresso.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 24 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

LATTE

Hurdle Word 3 hint

A long, narrow boat.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 24 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 24, 2024 Hurdle Word 3 answer

KAYAK

Hurdle Word 4 hint

A royal cap.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for December 24 Hurdle Word 4 answer

CROWN

Final Hurdle hint

The edges of a loaf of bread.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

CRUST

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Online dating as a gay man has its share of horror stories. It's also a rite of passage dating back to the Craigslist m4m era. It's a high-risk, high-reward activity.

For members of the LGBTQ+ community, online dating presents a unique set of challenges, which can sour the experience. Ghosting and catfishing are still common, but you might also find people asking unnecessary questions about your past, straight guys who shouldn't be in your feed, and even some not-so-subtle fetishization. Not exactly the butterflies-in-your-stomach feeling we're all after, right?

Yet, despite the BS, the best gay dating apps have helped millions of men make meaningful connections.

SEE ALSO: The major dating apps are collapsing into each other

According to the Pew Research Center, about one-quarter of LGBTQ+ adults say they met their match through online dating. The problem? Not all dating apps are created equal, especially for LGBTQ+ users.

What is the best gay dating app right now?

We can't talk about the gay dating scene in the 21st century without talking about Grindr, the undisputed king of gay dating mobile apps. However, there are a lot of other options, especially if you want to make a genuine connection.

"Grindr is a tried and true app that many queer men gravitate toward to find partners or for relationships that require lesser commitment, so it’s easy to point to it as the #1 app," Michelle Herzog, LMFT, AASECT-certified sex therapist, tells Mashable. "However, like Tinder, it’s gained a reputation as a hookup app — but that doesn’t mean there still aren’t men looking for long-term commitments, either." Lately, Grindr users have been complaining about a buggier app experience and free features going behind paywalls. So, even if you don't quit Grindr for good, it might be time to test other gay dating apps.

SEE ALSO: Pornhub will block Florida to ring in the new year

The most popular dating apps have a lot to offer, and that's where you'll find the most queer users. Keeping Tinder on the back burner isn't just a straight people thing (especially for guys in less-populated areas where apps like Scruff offer slim pickings). Plus, mainstream apps deserve credit for trying to create a more inclusive atmosphere. OkCupid gets kudos for embracing change and making inclusivity a core part of its compatibility scoring. You can also try niche gay dating sites if you tend to like a certain type of man, but in general, the more popular apps offer the greatest chance of success — it's a numbers game.

Whether you're looking for something serious, a hookup, something that stays strictly online, or an altogether different definition of connection, there's an ideal queer dating app out there for you. So, here's a breakdown of the best dating apps for gay men to help you find your perfect match.

TL;DR: Secure 1TB of lifetime cloud storage with Koofr for $109.97 — the no-nonsense last-minute gift or essential new year upgrade.

Opens in a new window Credit: Koofr Koofr Cloud Storage: Lifetime Subscription (1TB) $119.97
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If you're looking for a practical, last-minute gift or a smart way to kick off your New Year organizational dreams with secure and streamlined digital storage, this offer could be the one. Koofr Cloud Storage gives you lifetime access to 1TB of storage for just $119.97 — with no recurring fees, no tracking, and versatility.

Koofr is the Swiss Army knife of cloud storage. Whether you’re storing precious photos, HD videos, or work documents, this service provides 1TB of lifetime storage, allowing you to save up to 250,000 12MP photos, 500 hours of HD video, or 6.5 million PDFs. Koofr doesn’t just store your files, it enhances your file management experience.

With the Koofr Duplicate Finder, you’ll never waste precious space on redundant files. You can also link your Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, or Amazon accounts to access all your cloud files from one convenient platform. Add advanced features like customizable file sharing, WebDAV support, and zero tracking, and you’ve got a cloud storage solution that’s equal parts practical and private.

Unlike many cloud storage services that quietly track your every move, Koofr prioritizes your privacy. They don’t monitor your activity, and your data is protected with end-to-end encryption, whether at rest or in transit. Rest easy knowing your files are secure, private, and accessible only to you.

There's no need to add another subscription fee to the pile. Koofr’s lifetime plan is a one-time investment that could potentially save you hundreds of dollars over time. And with advanced features like file collaboration, versioning, and seamless integration with external platforms, Koofr combines convenience with long-term value.

Get lifetime access to 1TB of Koofr Cloud Storage for just $119.97.

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TL;DR: The GoCable Ultimate 8-in-1 Charger combines fast 100W charging, universal compatibility, and handy tools like a bottle opener and safe-proof cutter — all in one portable device for just $24.99 (reg. $44).

Opens in a new window Credit: Muttant Design Lab GoCable Ultimate 8-in-1 Charger $24.99 at Mashable Shop
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Tired of tangled cables and dead devices? Meet the GoCable Ultimate 8-in-1 EDC Charger—a sleek, compact gadget that combines fast 100W charging with universal compatibility, real-time LED power monitoring, and other handy tools like a built-in bottle opener.

Whether you're powering up your phone, laptop, or drone, this versatile tool has you covered.

GoCable is a multitasking powerhouse designed for modern life. Ideal for travelers, creators, and adventurers, it features ultra-fast charging, tangle-free magnetic cable management, and universal connectors for all your devices.

Plus, the bottle opener and hidden cutter make it a true everyday carry essential. Compact enough to fit on a keyring, GoCable ensures you’re never caught off-guard, regardless of whether you’re tackling tech emergencies or enjoying a well-deserved drink.

Here are the eight features you can expect from the GoCable:

1. 100W ultra-fast charging.

2. Universal compatibility: includes type-C to type-C and Apple Lightning connectors for all devices.

3. LED power display: Monitor your charging status in real time.

4. Magnetic cable wrap: Keep cables neat and secure.

5. Bottle opener

6. Safe-proof cutter: Easily open packages without worrying about accidental cuts.

7. Carabiner clip: Attach it to your bag, belt, or keys for easy access.

8. Data transfer capability: Quickly transfer files between devices on the go.

By investing in GoCable, you're investing in convenience, efficiency, and peace of mind for years to come. Whether you're a frequent traveler, a digital nomad, or simply someone who wants to simplify their life, GoCable is an ideal solution.

Grab your GoCable for $24.99 today and discover the future of portable power.

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TL;DR: Enjoy the potential of the grade-A refurbished iPad Pro (256GB, WiFi + cellular) with top-tier performance, stunning visuals, and massive storage for $699.99 (reg. $1,099).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Refurbished iPad Pro (256GB, WiFi + cellular) $699.99
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If you’ve been dreaming of upgrading your tech setup, consider this your sign.

The grade-A refurbished iPad Pro (256GB, WiFi + cellular) packs incredible power and a stunning Liquid Retina display all for $699.99 (reg. $1,099). Whether you’re creating, working, or gaming, this iPad Pro offers premium performance without the premium price.

The 12.9-inch iPad Pro is the go-to device for professionals, creatives, and tech enthusiasts alike. Its A12Z Bionic chip with Neural Engine provides unmatched multitasking power, while the Liquid Retina display delivers vivid, lifelike visuals. Plus, 256GB of storage and WiFi + Cellular connectivity keep you productive and connected wherever you go.

The iPad Pro’s 12MP Wide camera, 10MP Ultra-Wide camera, and LiDAR Scanner aren’t just great for taking pictures — they redefine what you can do with a tablet. You can capture ultra-detailed photos, record in 4K, and experiment with AR tools for everything from interior design mockups to interactive learning experiences.

The 7MP TrueDepth front camera ensures your video calls and selfies look sharp, whether you’re attending virtual meetings or connecting with family across the globe.

This Grade-A refurbished model arrives in near-mint condition, ensuring a premium experience for less. Whether you’re editing high-resolution videos, enjoying AR experiences with the LiDAR Scanner, or making crisp video calls, this iPad Pro can support your efforts.

Order today and start the new year with a device that keeps up with your ambition. Get the grade-A refurbished iPad Pro for just $699.99 (reg. $1,099).

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TL;DR: Design logos, create stunning visuals, and craft engaging content with a lifetime subscription to AI Magicx for just $69.99.

Opens in a new window Credit: AI Magicx AI Magicx: Lifetime Subscription (Rune Plan) $69.99 at Mashable Shop
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Do you need a memorable logo but don’t have the time — or the skills — to design one? AI Magicx’s Rune Plan was made to make your life easier. This powerful AI-powered platform turns your ideas into professional-grade designs, compelling content, and more, all in minutes.

For just $69.99, you’ll unlock a lifetime subscription to a creative toolbox that’s perfect for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone ready to elevate their brand or creative flow.

AI Magicx is an innovative platform powered by cutting-edge artificial intelligence. Whether you’re starting a business, brainstorming content, or crafting a brand identity, AI Magicx simplifies every step. From unique logo design to interactive chatbots, it’s kind of like having a full creative team at your fingertips without the hefty price tag.

With AI Magicx, creating something extraordinary is as simple as entering a few prompts. Need a logo? Provide your vision, and the AI Logo Designer will generate a gallery of stunning options in seconds.

Want to engage your audience? Use the AI Chatbot feature to interact with customers seamlessly. And if you’re in the market for professional-grade articles or interesting visuals, AI Magicx’s tools have you covered.

The platform combines usability with vast possibilities, helping you create without requiring expert skills. On the back end of things, you can build engaging, interactive bots to enhance user experience and refine your code with developer-focused AI tools.

Don't miss the chance to save big on a lifetime of AI Magicx's Rune Plan while it's still available for just $69.99.

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Let's be real: PC gaming offers the best possible experience for gamers. High-end gaming computers pack more graphical and processing power than any home console, and they offer a level of freedom in terms of customization and game choice that you’re just not going to find anywhere else. But when it comes down to it, do you want your gaming sessions tied to your desk?

While desktops deliver elite performance, the best gaming laptops fit into the modern lifestyle more smoothly. It’s so convenient to take your gaming rig with you on the go – whether that’s to a friend’s place, or just to another room. Plus, there’s a gaming laptop to fit every type of player. Whether you're looking for a powerhouse that supports eye-popping visuals, a lightweight notebook to fit snugly in your backpack, or hoping to find a gaming laptop on a budget, we promise there's a machine for you.

SEE ALSO: Gaming starter kit: All the gear you need to play like a real gamer Where should you buy a gaming laptop?

You can find great gaming laptops at pretty much any big-name retailer nowadays. Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, GameStop, B&H, and others all have large selections of gaming laptops.

However, there is often a benefit to shopping directly with gaming laptop brands — their sites often offer a lot more customization, letting you pick out the exact specs you want. At bigger retailers, most off-the-shelf gaming laptops are already pre-specced (often by sketchy third-party sellers if you shop at Amazon), making it harder to find the right configuration and price.

Testing the Razer Blade 14 gaming laptop for this guide. Credit: Dylan Haas / Mashable What's the best cheap gaming laptop, and is it worth it?

When it comes to gaming laptops, it's totally fine to not immediately spring for the top-of-the-line, $3,000-plus powerhouse. Plenty of gaming laptops fall below the $1,000 mark and are well worth the money. But, we would advise you against going too cheap. You really do get what you pay for, and if you settle for that bottom-of-the-barrel machine, you're not going to be able to run the games you want to play anyway.

However, if you're looking to keep a tight budget and don't mind playing via cloud streaming, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is a great option (more details on that laptop below). And if you're looking to spend even less, the Lenovo Gaming Chromebook 16 is another solid cloud gaming laptop, which you can read about in our guide to the best laptops under $500.

What are the best gaming laptops?

Finding the best laptop for your needs and budget can be tricky. They may be easier to parse than their desktop counterparts, but gaming laptops still require a fair bit of careful spec scrutinization. These are no consoles — you can’t just pick the latest generation system off the shelf and get playing. Choosing between the many graphics cards, processors, storage sizes, and screen types can be a real head-scratcher. And that’s where we come in.

Mashable Shopping experts have tested and reviewed a lot of gaming laptops over the years. Read on to find our recommendations for the best gaming laptops of 2024.

When you're on the hunt for the best laptop under $500, you need to be careful.

In the highly competitive laptop market, you get what you pay for. That means it can be very dangerous to buy a "cheap" laptop. Choose wrongly, and you'll be stuck with a slow, outdated computer that causes more problems than it solves. Mashable regularly tests the best affordable laptops overall, but if $500 is your upper limit, then you're going to be priced out of some popular budget laptops. But even then, we still highly recommend a handful of computers that will fit nicely into your budget.

Not all of the laptops we tested made our final cut, like the Samsung Chromebook 4. Credit: Timothy Beck Werth / Mashable A quick guide to laptop pricing

You can buy a cheap Chromebook for as little as $100, while our favorite gaming laptop will set you back over $3,000. And in our guide to the best laptops in general, you'll find machines that span a wide spectrum of prices. With $500 to spend, you'll be priced out of Ultrabooks, MacBooks, and most gaming laptops.

Typically, laptops fall into one of the following categories:

• Chromebooks ($100-$650): These computers have minimal storage and are designed to run mostly web applications. They're light, portable, and very affordable. Cloud-based gaming Chromebooks also offer an alternative to gaming laptops.

• Budget laptops ($250-$750): Even the best budget laptops won't have the most impressive specs, but they should have enough RAM and storage for everyday use at school or work.

• MacBooks ($850-$3,500): The cheapest MacBook worth buying (the M2 MacBook Air) will set you back $850 when it's on sale, while a fully specced-out MacBook Pro can cost as much as $3,500.

• Ultrabooks ($1,000-$3,500): These high-end laptops have enough processing power to handle tasks like photo and video editing. They typically have a sleek and modern aesthetic, too. MacBooks also fall into this category.

SEE ALSO: The best gaming laptops for 2025, no matter your budget What are the best laptops under $500 in 2024?

Below, we've put together a detailed guide to the best budget laptops for under $500, including Chromebook picks. The right laptop will vary depending on your needs, but the Acer Aspire 5 is our overall top pick for our money. Check out all the contenders below.

It shouldn't have to be said but: Women are great! Movies couldn’t and shouldn’t be made without women in the rooms where the decisions are made. Luckily for us, that problem is increasingly becoming one of the past. (Though, of course, there's always more that can be done.)

On the bright side, there are tons of amazingly talented women in Hollywood right now, creating everything from award-winning dramas to delightful romantic comedies, and the caliber of these movies speaks for itself. Don’t take our word for it: Check them out yourself with this list of some of the best movies on Netflix from female-identifying writers, directors, and producers.

24. Moxie Credit: Netflix

With a script from Tamara Chestna and Dylan Meyer, Amy Poehler directs this charming film about budding feminist Vivian (Hadley Robinson). Inspired by her mother's Riot Grrrl past, Vivian decides to expose systemic sexism at her high school through the anonymous zine MOXiE!, and ends up spearheading a cause that other students support.

Robinson hits the perfect balance of fired up and unsure that feels so familiar to young women. Plus, she’s surrounded by a strong and thoughtfully diverse ensemble (including viral hit band The Linda Lindas). Moxie will make you want to get up and start something, even if the plan is a little half-baked but your heart is in the right place.* — Proma Khosla, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: Moxie is now streaming on Netflix.

23. Fair Play

Phoebe Dynevor is Emily Meyers, blissfully in love and newly engaged to a fellow hedge fund analyst, Luke Edmunds (Alden Ehrenreich). They have to keep their relationship secret, however, since it breaks company policy. That doesn't stop this lovesick pair — they'll overcome any obstacle, together! Until Emily gets a promotion and becomes Luke's boss. That is one obstacle too far for Luke. He goes from supportive to sinister in the blink of an eye, making sly remarks about her wardrobe, withholding affection, and believing sexist rumors that she slept her way to the top. It's only a matter of time before this break-up gets bloody.

Dark, tense, and stylish, Fair Play puts gender roles firmly in its crosshairs. It's not saying anything particularly new, but that's just fine. This Sundance darling written and directed by Chloe Domont is a solid psychological thriller with a splashy finish.* — K.G.

How to watch: Fair Play is now streaming on Netflix.

22. Always Be My Maybe  Credit: Netflix

Ali Wong and Randall Park are Sasha and Marcus, childhood best friends in San Francisco who fall out of touch as they grow older. Years later, when Sasha, now a famous chef, returns to the Bay area, Marcus gathers his courage to tell Sasha how he’s always felt about her. Unfortunately, the news that she’s got herself a new beau interrupts his plans.

Directed by Nahnatchka Khan (Don’t Trust the B**** in Apt. 23 and Fresh Off the Boat) and written by Wong alongside Park and Michael Golamco, Always Be My Maybe is a refreshing and funny romantic comedy that dares to ask the question: How horrible would it be if your crush started dating Keanu Reeves?!?! It’s a nightmare too terrible to behold!!! Obviously, no mere human could possibly compete with literal Keanu (who is perfect as an absurd, heightened version of his cool, real-life persona), but Marcus is determined to try. A perfect rom-com premise. No notes! — K.G.

How to watch: Always Be My Maybe is now streaming on Netflix.

21. A Simple Favor

Anna Kendrick is Stephanie Smothers, a cutesy, sheltered mommy vlogger without much joy in her life. So when an impossibly fashionable and cool mom at her son's school, Emily (Blake Lively), asks her to hang out, she's both eager and out of her depth. An unlikely friendship between the mismatched pair blooms, until the day Emily doesn't return from a business trip. A Simple Favor is an unpredictable, gripping, and sometimes silly Gone Girl-esque mystery directed by Paul Feig and written by Jessica Sharzer. It never goes over the top, but it doesn't concern itself with staying too grounded either — the perfect sweet spot.* — K.G.

How to watch: A Simple Favor is now streaming on Netflix.

20. The Fear Street Trilogy Credit: Netflix

Netflix’s Fear Street trilogy, based on the works of R.L. Stine, didn’t have to go so hard… but it did, and for that we are grateful. Co-written and directed by Leigh Janiak, the saga immersed us in the world of Shadyside, a town haunted by grisly murders ever since its founding in the 17th century.

Deena (Kiana Madeira) and Sam (Olivia Scott Welch) find themselves at the center of 1994’s bloody episode, determined to not only survive but also to find and reverse the Shadyside curse. The cast returns and reorders itself in Part Two: 1978 and Part Three: 1666, which pull irresistible performances from the young actors and weave together a thrilling mystery. The first two chapters pull from the best slasher movies, while the third leans into the supernatural. Best of all, it sticks the landing, which just makes us want to keep coming back.* — P.K.

How to watch: Fear Street: Part One: 1994 is now streaming on Netflix.

How to watch: Fear Street: Part Two: 1978 is now streaming on Netflix.

How to watch: Fear Street: Part Three: 1666 is now streaming on Netflix.

19. Lost Girls

When her daughter, Shannan, goes missing, Mari Gilbert relentlessly pushes local police to keep up the search — and ends up uncovering multiple unsolved Long Island murders along the way. This is the true story of a mother who would go to any lengths necessary to find her daughter, as well as the very real and gruesome Gilgo Beach serial killings (for which a suspect was charged in 2023). 

Amy Ryan is simply captivating as the dogged Mari. While Lost Girls is an undeniably raw watch, directed with grim realism by Liz Garbus, its power comes from focusing not on the villains but on the victims and the families whose lives have been irrevocably changed. — K.G.

How to watch: Lost Girls is now streaming on Netflix.

18. The Forty-Year-Old Version Credit: Netflix

Written, directed, and produced by Radha Blank, The Forty-Year-Old Version is a total triumph. Loosely inspired by Blank's own experiences, this engaging, energetic film follows a playwright who is nearing her 40th birthday and feels like she has nothing to show for it. Frustrated with the theatrical establishment that continually stymies her success, she finds herself increasingly drawn to rap, a solitary art form that needs no collaborators or gatekeepers.

Shot in beautiful black and white, The Forty-Year-Old Version feels wholly fresh. It's a story we've never seen before, told in a style that is completely its own. — K.G.

How to watch: The Forty-Year-Old Version is now streaming on Netflix.

17. To All the Boys I've Loved Before

Bubbly, sweet, and impossibly charming, Netflix's 2018 teen romcom hit To All the Boys I've Loved Before has spawned two sequel films and a spin-off series. It's reached veritable franchise status, people! Thanks to screenwriter Sofia Alvarez, director Susan Johnson, and author Jenny Han, there's something about this teen romance that feels more real and relatable than your average high school "fake dating" romp. It's a fun and funny rom-com, but it also hits you right in the chest when you least expect it. 

SEE ALSO: 24 times 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before' was too cute to handle

Quiet teenager Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor) privately writes letters to her former crushes and then locks them away from prying eyes. Unfortunately, Lara has a younger sister named Kitty (Anna Cathcart), and simply put, younger sisters cannot be stopped. Kitty mails the letters, forcing Lara to confront her old crushes face to face. Maybe if she pretends she already has a boyfriend, that will ease the embarrassment of the situation, right? Fake dating always works, right?! — K.G.

How to watch: To All The Boys I've Loved Before is now streaming on Netflix.

16. Wicked Little Letters

It's 1920, and the small English town of Littlehampton hasn't seen anyone like Rose Gooding (Jessie Buckley) before. She's brash, she's reckless, and worse, she's Irish. Rose is the polar opposite of her neighbor, Edith Swan (Olivia Colman), the pious, shy spinster who still lives with her aging parents and is shocked by Rose's carefree employment of curse words. The two form a friendly acquaintance, until Edith receives a barrage of hateful, swear-laden anonymous letters. Rose is obviously to blame! Or is she?

This delightful poison-pen mystery is inspired by a very real scandal that consumed the minds and media of 1920s England. Directed by Thea Sharrock and starring a who's-who of British acting royalty (including Eileen Atkins, Timothy Spall, Anjana Vasan, and more), Wicked Little Letters is a darkly comedic puzzle full of top-notch characters. What more could any budding detective ask for?* — K.G.

How to watch: Wicked Little Letters is now streaming on Netflix.

15. Been So Long Credit: Netflix

Do you love musicals, romance, and Michaela Coel? Then Been So Long is the movie for you. This stylish musical epic follows Simone (Coel), a young, single mother in London completely wrapped up in caring for her differently-abled daughter. After her friends and family tell her she’s too uptight, she finally agrees to a night out and meets the handsome, complicated Raymond (Arinzé Kene). The two tentatively begin a flirtation, though they’ll each have to contend with their own baggage before the relationship can thrive.

Directed by Tinge Krishnan and adapted from the successful stage show of the same name, Been So Long is a bright and buoyant musical for the modern era. The stories are grounded and complex, the characters are relatable, and — perhaps most importantly —the songs are absolute bops! — K.G.

How to watch: Been So Long is now streaming on Netflix.

14. The Old Guard Credit: Netflix

Charlize Theron is the hardened leader of a mysterious group of warriors who cannot die in the smart blockbuster The Old Guard. Throughout their long, lonely lives, they've done what they can to influence history and nudge humanity in the right direction. And now, just as a dogged investigator is close to uncovering their secret, they've found a new member (​​KiKi Layne) who desperately needs their guidance. 

Director Gina Prince-Bythewood (Love & Basketball and The Secret Life of Bees) skillfully juggles the many moving parts of this high-concept, action-packed superhero flick. Both emotionally intelligent and brutally violent, The Old Guard is a gripping, nonstop adventure that will leave you begging for more.* —K.G.

How to watch: The Old Guard is now streaming on Netflix.

13. May December

On its surface, the latest from Todd Haynes (Carol, Velvet Goldmine) may seem like a thinly veiled reexamination of a true crime tale that had '90s tabloids absolutely obsessed. Screenwriter Samy Burch uses this familiar framework to construct a story that not only delivers a dishy parody of a melodrama, down to a string-zinging score and comically banal dialogue about hot dogs. She's also built a keen device to evaluate our obsession with true crime, for better or for ghoulish.

In May December, Julianne Moore plays a wife and mother who has a shameful (and criminal) past, which involves how she met her current husband (Charles Melton). When a TV actress (Natalie Portman) wants to turn their lives into a movie, old wounds are reopened. Beneath the blistering domestic drama, Haynes and Burch weave in a sharp and sophisticated humor that invites audiences to bark with laughter, even as their jaws drop in shock.* — Kristy Puchko, Film Editor

How to watch: May December is now streaming on Netflix.

12. The Half of It

Finally, a Cyrano for the modern age! Ellie Chu (Leah Lewis) is a bookish high school senior who earns money writing essays for her more popular and outgoing classmates. When a jock asks her to write a love letter for the most popular girl in school, Aster, Ellie initially refuses. But eventually, she agrees — she can't turn down the money! Or is it that she also finds herself captivated by Aster? 

Written and directed by Alice Wu, The Half of It is a fantastic modern epistolary romance. The characters are real teens, reaching for connection without fully understanding their own motivations. The humor here is earned, the emotion is tender, and the story feels both fresh and familiar. A true winner, all around. — K.G.

How to watch: The Half of It is now streaming on Netflix.

11. The Mole Agent

When a client suspects their mother is being abused in a nursing home, a private investigator hires an 83 year-old widower to pose as a resident, move into the retirement community, and investigate. Directed by Maite Alberdi, The Mole Agent made a 2020 Sundance splash and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature. It's a warm, funny, and deeply charismatic watch that begs its viewers to remember that the elderly still have lives to live.

What's more, this very true story is the inspiration behind Michael Schur's sweet and silly 2024 new series, A Man on the Inside, starring Ted Danson! — K.G.

How to watch: The Mole Agent is now streaming on Netflix.

10. Lady Chatterley's Lover

This modern adaptation of D.H. Lawrence's scandalous 1920s novel will leave you absolutely swooning. Emma Corrin (The Crown) is spectacular as Connie Reid, the titular Lady Chatterley. Her marriage to Clifford Chatterley seemed like the perfect match before the war, but when he returns paralyzed, withdrawn, and uninterested in her happiness, Connie feels utterly alone and isolated in their empty countryside manor. She finds a refuge for her oppressive loneliness in the estate's gamekeeper, Oliver Mellors (Jack O'Connell). Very quickly the two begin a torrid affair that is both passionate and tender, exuberant and profound — and a threat to both of their lifestyles. 

Much like the source material, Lady Chatterley's Lover puts sex on full display. Their trysts are steamy and explicit, but thanks to the incredible vulnerability of Corrin and O'Connell, and the steady hand of director Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre, it never feels pornographic. The lovers' stolen moments are deeply intimate and personal. Together, in the sumptuous woods of the Chatterley estate, they explore each other's bodies and souls with unbridled joy. It's an elegant and sensual adaptation that makes an age-old story feel like a breath of fresh air.* — K.G.

How to Watch: Lady Chatterley's Lover is now streaming on Netflix.

9. The Lost Daughter

Maggie Gyllenhaal's feature-length directorial debut is a sophisticated psychological drama that will have you self-reflecting for weeks afterward, whether you want to or not. The Lost Daughter (which Gyllenhaal also adapted, based on the novel by Elena Ferrante) explores the unseen, unspoken, and unpleasant layers of motherhood. Do all moms find fulfillment in their children? 

Olivia Colman is awkwardly enthralling as Leda, a middle-aged woman on a solo vacation in Greece who finds herself drawn to a young mother, Nina (Dakota Johnson), who is staying at the same resort. As Leda watches Nina's children whine and claw for her attention, Leda flashes back to her own tumultuous time as a young mother (played by Jessie Buckley) and the choices she made to get herself through it. It's at times unsettling to see motherhood depicted so soberly, so crushingly suffocating — but that's what's makes The Lost Daughter such a bold and affecting watch. You may not like these characters, but you do understand them. — K.G.

How to watch: The Lost Daughter is now streaming on Netflix.

8. Private Life

Rachel (Kathryn Hahn) and Richard (Paul Giamatti), an artsy New York couple in their forties, keep desperately trying and failing to have a child. When their niece Sadie (Kayli Carter) comes to stay with them, the possibility arises that Sadie could be their egg donor, setting the trio down a messy path of anxious hope.

Tamara Jenkins' Private Life is a film about the brutal trials of a middle-aged couple trying to have a baby, but it's also one that crackles with levity and intelligence. It finds the comedy in having an incredibly intimate argument in the middle of a Manhattan street, or the way your niece drags your professional failures to honor the plight of the struggling artist to her college friends. It's a reminder that even the most serious material is often best approached with empathy and a good laugh.* — Oliver Whitney, Contributing Writer

How to watch: Private Life is now streaming on Netflix.

7. The Babadook

​​Way back before becoming an inexplicable LGBTQ+ icon, The Babadook was just a simple ghoul standing in front of a girl asking her to "dook dook dook" it. Anyway, enough has been written in the last decade about director Jennifer Kent's 2014 film being an "allegory for grief" that we should probably start writing papers about those papers now. Or perhaps we should just wipe away the cobwebs and see the movie for what it is, which is a barn-burner of a tale about an overworked mom (Essie Davis, who deserved all of the awards for this performance) and her anxious little boy Samuel (Noah Wiseman, really earning that "World's Most Annoying Brat" mug) unraveling together hand-in-hand in the wake of family tragedy. The performances keep everything almost too relatable, and Kent's eye for gothic weirdness summoned a new horror icon right out of thin air.* — Jason Adams, Freelance Contributor

How to watch: The Babadook is now streaming on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: 'The Babadook' filmmaker Jennifer Kent on how her character became an LGBTQ+ icon, and why we will never see a sequel

6. 13th 

Ava DuVernay's 13th should be compulsory viewing, a powerful documentary that examines mass incarceration and wrongful imprisonment of Black people in America and the long, sinister, racist history that has enabled this discriminatory system to continue. As Mashable's Tricia Crimmins writes, "The documentary, titled to reference the 13th Amendment — the amendment that abolished slavery — not only elevates the voices of those who have fallen victim to the broken justice system, it exposes those who made such a system possible, such as proponents of Jim Crow-era statutes and the multiple former presidents and political leaders that contributed to the Republican Party's war on drugs (which enlisted Bill Clinton as well). 13th extensively enlightens viewers on how a majority of Black Americans unfairly serve time in the prison industrial complex."* — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

How to watch: 13th is now streaming on Netflix.

5. Set It Up Credit: Netflix

Rom-coms are back, baby — and Set It Up, written by Katie Silberman (who also penned Booksmart) and directed by Claire Scanlon (The Office, Brooklyn Nine-Nine), is one of the best entries of this new golden age! Zoey Deutch and Glen Powell are young assistants who hatch a plan to set up their high-strung, demanding bosses (Lucy Liu and Taye Diggs) so they can finally get a weekend off. What these two schemers never anticipated, of course, was that they might find themselves in their own romance in the process. Whoops!

Set It Up is a fun, hilarious romp that feels exponentially more real than your standard, candy-coated romantic comedy. The characters are charming because they’re flawed, and they talk like people you know (Zoey uses insider nicknames like “Golf Guy” when chatting with her friends about her dating life). If you’re looking for a romantic comedy that leaves you feeling like you just had the night out with your crew, this is the movie for you. — K.G.

How to watch: Set It Up is now streaming on Netflix.

4. Mudbound  Credit: Netflix

Based on the novel of the same name, Mudbound follows two American soldiers (Garrett Hedlund and Jason Mitchell) who return from WWII changed men. Their rural Mississippi town, however, has not evolved with them. 

Director Dee Rees became the first Black woman ever nominated for a best adapted screenplay Academy Award for the exceptional script, which she wrote alongside Virgil Williams. Mary J. Blige also garnered both a best supporting actress and a best original song nomination — the first time in history someone has been nominated for an acting and song award in the same year. Mudbound is a riveting and deeply affecting historical drama about two intertwined families navigating an era of intense social change.* — K.G.

How to watch: Mudbound is now streaming on Netflix.

3. Shiva Baby

Worlds collide in this 2020 cringe comedy that's been widely hailed by critics. When a Jewish college student (Rachel Sennott) dutifully attends a shiva alongside her parents, she's prepared to field questions about her unimpressive job prospects and lack of a boyfriend. However, she's not ready for her secret sugar daddy (Danny Deferrari) to show up, much less with his beautiful blonde wife (Dianna Agron) and their rosy-cheeked baby. Making matters even more fraught, her former best friend is slinging her serious side-eye. Something has got to give. In her remarkable debut feature, writer/director Emma Seligman creates laughs and suspense with an electrifying tapestry of observational humor, social awkwardness, jolting humiliation, and sexual tension. You've heard of feel-good comedies? Well, this is a feel-anxious-as-hell comedy, dragging us through each embarrassment with our harried heroine. And yet, we can't recommend the experience highly enough.* — K.P.

How to watch: Shiva Baby is now streaming on Netflix.

2. Aftersun

Do we ever truly know our loved ones? Writer/director Charlotte Wells explores the desire to understand our family members in her stunning debut feature, Aftersun. Paul Mescal is captivating and enigmatic as Calum, a young father taking his 11-year-old daughter Sophie on a vacation to celebrate his birthday. As the film unfolds, with Sophie recording their trip on a camcorder (this is the late '90s, after all!), we see flashes of adult Sophie rewatching the footage, yearning to know more deeply the man hidden inside her dad. Aftersun is an astounding, empathetic character study that will stay with you for days.* — K.G.

How to watch: Aftersun is now streaming on Netflix.

1. The Power of the Dog  Credit: Netflix

Among our favorites of 2021 is Jane Campion's latest, a slow-burn thriller with the gritty grandeur of a Western. Academy Award–nominee Benedict Cumberbatch stars as Phil Burbank, a rugged rancher who can rope, ride, and run down anyone with his cruel wit. Once his bullied brother (Academy Award-nominee Jesse Plemons) marries, Phil's favorite target becomes his gentle (and genteel) sister-in-law (Academy Award–nominee Kirsten Dunst), who could well crumble under his cold stare. Toxic tensions burn slow and mean as Campion smoothly unfurls a story unpredictable, unnerving, and outstanding. This one grows more compelling with each rewatch. Give yourself over to the sickening swoon and you'll understand what had critics raving, and why Campion (once again) took home the Academy Award for Best Director.* — K.P.

How to watch: The Power of the Dog is now streaming on Netflix.

* denotes that this blurb appeared in a previous Mashable list.

UPDATE: Dec. 19, 2024, 2:37 p.m. EST This list was first published on Sept. 11, 2022. It has since been updated to reflect current streaming options.

Connections: Sports Edition is a new version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 24 Here's a hint for today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Cash

• Green: Hard throw

• Blue: No Lombardi trophy

• Purple: Teams named after locals

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Money

• Green: Fastball

• Blue: Teams without a Super Bowl win

• Purple: Teams whose nicknames are demonyms

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections Sports Edition #92 is...

What is the answer to Connections Sports Edition today

• Money - BANK, BREAD, COIN, DOUGH

• Fastball - CHEESE, GAS, HEAT, HUMMER

• Teams without a Super Bowl win - JAGUARS, LIONS, PANTHERS, TITANS

• Teams whose nicknames are demonyms - CANADIENS, HOOSIERS, KNICKS, TEXANS

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Tuesday, December 24, 2024:

AcrossChristmas ___

• The answer is Eve.

Hanker for, as Christmas cookies

• The answer is Crave.

Instrument heard in many a Christmas hymn

• The answer is Organ.

Rounded heap

• The answer is Mound.

Vintner's device

• The answer is Press.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 24, 2024 DownProofreader's catch

• The answer is Error.

Like a Christmas wish list that just says "toys"

• The answer is Vague.

Chris of "Knives Out"

• The answer is Evans.

Provide free of charge

• The answer is Comp.

Comes to a close

• The answer is Ends.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

The Japanese companies are considering joining forces to survive in a rapidly changing auto industry, but auto history is filled with troubled and failed marriages.

TL;DR: MagellanTV’s two-year documentary streaming subscription delivers advert-free access to 3,000+ hours of content for just £47.84 (reg. £95.56).

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Opens in a new window Credit: MagellanTV MagellanTV Documentary Streaming Service: 2-Year Subscription £47.84
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It's Monday, and that means it's time to face another week, but if you're here, you know you don't have to do it all alone! Connections is a fun-but-challenging game, and we have the hints and answers you need to keep your streak alive!

Connections is the latest New York Times word game that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

Tweet may have been deleted

Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

Tweet may have been deleted

Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 24 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Classic movie and its iconic line involving animals

• Green: Someone you cherish

• Blue: Sounds that mimic letters ending in "s"

• Purple: Famous songs titles that repeat

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: "Lions, Tigers, and Bears, oh my!"

• Green: Beloved, As A Friend

• Blue: Words That Sound Like Plural Letters

• Purple: When Tripled, Hit Song Titles

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #562 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• "Lions, Tigers, and Bears, oh my!": BEARS, LIONS, OH MY, TIGERS

• Beloved, As A Friend: CLOSE, DEAR, INTIMATE, TIGHT

• Words That Sound Like Plural Letters: BEES, EASE, JAYS, USE

• When Tripled, Hit Song Titles: BILLS, BYE, GIMMIE, PLEASE

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 24

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

It's Monday, Dec. 23, meaning it's deep into the holiday season and it's time to give yourself the gift of Wordle hints! We have the daily hints and tips you need to figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for December 24 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for December 24 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Freedom bird.

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There is one reoccurring letter.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter E.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

EAGLE.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for December 24

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferred pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 24 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 24 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Who on earth ...?

These words are women's names.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

Words are earth-inspired names.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is vertical.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is NatureNames.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for December 24

• Laurel

• Willow

• Brook

• Holly

• River

• Clementine

• NatureNames

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Strands.

Shopping for good wine shouldn’t be hard work. For over a decade, Naked Wines has been making it easier for wine lovers to enjoy premium wines crafted by independent Australian and New Zealand winemakers, delivered straight to your door.

Right now, new customers can enjoy $100 off their first 12-bottle case, plus free delivery. It’s the perfect way to explore exceptional wines at incredible value.

Opens in a new window Credit: Naked Wines Naked Wines Australia offer Get $100 off your first 12-bottle case, plus free delivery Get Deal What is Naked Wines?

Naked Wines set out to transform the wine industry in 2012 by connecting wine lovers directly with independent winemakers. As of 2024, Naked Wines funds over 60 independent Aussie and Kiwi winemakers, as well as exclusive collaborations with renowned international winemakers like Daryl Groom, the talent behind Penfolds Grange.

With no commitments or membership fees, you can enjoy Naked Wines hassle-free. And the best part? Every bottle is a passion project from an independent winemaker, so by choosing Naked Wines, you’re helping to make their dreams a reality.

What makes Naked Wines worth it?

Unlike traditional bottle shops that mark up prices to cover advertising and middlemen costs, Naked Wines operates on a unique business model that benefits both winemakers and customers.

By funding winemakers upfront, Naked Wines removes the financial risks often faced by small producers. This lets winemakers focus on creating incredible wine while delivering savings of up to 30% compared to retail prices directly to customers.

Its 90,000-strong customer base (called Angels) enjoys access to a curated selection of premium, award-winning wines, all while enjoying significant savings. Whether you're an aficionado or a casual wine lover, Naked Wines caters to all, offering outstanding value and a unique connection to independent winemakers.

How does Naked Wines work?

Here’s how Naked Wines ensures you get top-quality wines without breaking the bank:

● Cutting out middlemen: By bypassing retail markups and traditional advertising costs, Naked Wines passes significant savings directly to you.

● Investing in craftsmanship: Funding winemakers upfront enables them to concentrate on their craft rather than worrying about financial risks of the traditional wine market.

● Wide selection: Enjoy hundreds of wines, including exclusive collaborations with world-class winemakers.

● Satisfaction guaranteed: Don’t love a wine? No problem. Naked Wines will credit your account, so you’ll never pay for a bottle you don’t enjoy.

Credit: Naked Wines The new Angels offer: $100 off plus free delivery

As a new Naked Wines Angel, you can claim $100 off your first order of 12 bottles (minimum spend: $155.88). That means you’ll pay as little as $7.50 per bottle for top-notch wines, with free delivery included for your initial order. Whether you prefer red, white, or mixed cases, there’s an option to suit your taste.

To redeem this offer, simply click this link and follow the instructions. Keep in mind that this deal is available to first-time Naked Wines customers only. Terms and conditions apply, and it cannot be combined with other promotions.

Naked Wines Angel membership perks

Becoming a Naked Wines Angel unlocks a host of exclusive benefits beyond this initial offer:

● Monthly credit: Angels contribute an adjustable $40 monthly credit into their accounts, which they can use to purchase wines whenever they choose.

● Better wines for less: By going direct, you get to enjoy savings of up to 30% on every bottle of your delectable drops.

● Personalised recommendations: Naked Wines’ recommendation system curates wines tailored to your preferences, taking the guesswork out of discovering great options.

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How Much does an Angels membership cost?

Angel membership is flexible and transparent. The $40 monthly contribution goes directly to your future wine orders, meaning you’re building a balance to use as you please. There are no binding commitments or hidden fees, so you’re always in control of your membership.

What’s more, your contributions directly support and fund independent winemakers, ensuring access to sensational sips while making a meaningful impact on the winemaking community.

Where does Naked Wines deliver?

Naked Wines delivers to most major Australian cities and their surrounding areas. For metro areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, next-day delivery is available on orders placed before 3pm.

Regional and rural delivery options are also available, but be sure to check your postcode on the Naked Wines delivery calculator to confirm price and availability.

Is Naked Wines right for you?

Whatever your level of wine knowledge, Naked Wines is designed to cater to a range of preferences. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast, Naked Wines offers something for everyone.

If you’re new to wine, Naked Wines offers an accessible way to explore a diverse array of options at affordable prices. For avid wine lovers and collectors, it provides a chance to discover exclusive bottles and support skilled, independent winemakers. Shoppers on the hunt for thoughtful gifts will also find unique selections perfect for any occasion.

Getting started with Naked Wines

Ready to transform your wine experience? Here’s where to start:

1. Claim Your Offer: Redeem your $100 off voucher and receive 12 premium bottles, handpicked just for you. You can do that right here.

2. Sign Up: After you redeem your offer, sign up to become a Naked Wines Angel to unlock ongoing benefits and savings.

3. Take the Quiz: Take the Naked Wines quiz to find wines that match your tastes.

4. Enjoy Great Wine: Sit back and savour great wine delivered straight to your door, all while supporting passionate independent winemakers.

Terms and conditions apply. See more here.

Boxing Day lands Dec. 26, and along with it, loads of tech deals that are ripe for the taking. As an added perk this year, Dell’s Boxing Day deals are live on Dec. 20, which means you can nab first dibs on the gaming monitor, laptop, or other Dell gear you’ve been frothing for and spend your holiday watching ice hockey or gaming, instead of shopping. 

Here’s a sampling of the Dell Boxing Day deals you can score now through Jan. 3, and you’ll find tons more online. Beat your Boxing Day competition.

Uplevel your creativity  Opens in a new window Credit: Dell XPS 16 Laptop $2,129.99 at Dell
$2,299.99 Save $170.00 Get Deal

The sleek and powerful XPS 16 is a high-end laptop aimed at content creators and digital pros. A gorgeous 16.3-inch FHD+ anti-glare screen, 4K OLED display that makes everything pop, high-power components, and up to 28 hours of battery life will boost your creative flow. It’s the ultimate tool for anyone serious about their craft — delivering pro-level performance with a touch of luxury.

Upgrade your gaming setup Opens in a new window Credit: Dell Alienware m16 R2 Gaming Laptop $2,699.99 at Dell
$3,199.99 Save $500.00 Get Deal

The Alienware m16 R2 Gaming Laptop is a winner if you’re looking to rock your gameplay in 2025. Powered by the new GeForce RTX™ 40 Series Laptop GPUs, this beast packs improved AI performance, power efficiency, and ray-tracing capabilities for silky smooth play in your most intense games. The 16-inch QHD+ screen and 240Hz refresh rate will make you feel tingly all over.

A lightning-fast looker Opens in a new window Credit: Dell Alienware 25 Gaming Monitor $399.99 at Dell
$499.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal

If you’re shopping for a top-notch gaming monitor that doesn’t take up lots of desk space, the 24.5-inch Alienware 25 Gaming Monitor is a steal at this price. The blazing-fast 360Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms GtG (grey to grey) response time delivers fluid gameplay and crystal-clear graphics. Add in the AMD FreeSync™ Premium Technology and VESA®AdaptiveSync Display Certification, and it’s esports-level gaming for you on Boxing Day and beyond.

Dell’s Boxing Day deals are going on now and dishing out awesome savings on the tech you want for 2025. Shop early and take the holiday off this year. Plus, select discounted products, including these featured Alienware laptops, are eligible for Canada's sales tax holiday, letting you skip the sales tax for a limited time.

Santa might have his sleigh, but this Christmas, Beyoncé is bringing the true holiday magic to Netflix — and the NFL with a Cowboy Carter Christmas.

For the first time, Queen Bey will take the halftime stage during NFL Christmas Gameday, streaming live on Netflix on Wednesday, Dec. 25. While the Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens battle it out on the field, the real showstopper will be inside Houston’s NRG Stadium, where Beyoncé is set to sleigh slay with the first live performance of songs from her groundbreaking, Grammy-nominated album Cowboy Carter.

SEE ALSO: Beyoncé's 'Cowboy Carter': Who are the featured Black country artists?

Produced by Beyoncé’s own Parkwood Entertainment alongside Jesse Collins Entertainment, this anticipated performance sets to reimagine the football halftime show as it streams live to Netflix’s global audience of roughly 287 million paid subscribers. (Here's hoping they fixed the glitching issue.) In true Beyoncé fashion, expect boundary-pushing visuals, jaw-dropping choreography, and, if the rumors are true, a star-studded lineup of surprise guests straight from Cowboy Carter.

Grab your eggnog and cowboy boots — here’s everything you need to know about Beyoncé’s holiday halftime extravaganza.

What is the NFL Christmas Gameday Halftime Show?

This year's NFL Christmas Gameday will feature two back-to-back games, but all eyes are on the Texans vs. Ravens showdown at 4:30 p.m. EST. While the players fight for playoff standings, Beyoncé's halftime show is poised to steal the spotlight.

For the first time in history, the NFL is teaming up with Netflix to stream the halftime show live, making Beyoncé’s performance accessible to millions of fans worldwide. It’s a groundbreaking moment for live sports and streaming entertainment, proving once again that Beyoncé knows how to elevate a stage.

When and where to watch Beyoncé's halftime performance

Here are the essentials to mark on your calendar:

• Date: Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024

• Game Time: 4:30 p.m. EST (Texans vs. Ravens)

• Where to Watch: Live on Netflix

Halftime typically begins about an hour into the game, so tune in early. As far as we know, the official performance will only be available during the live stream, so don't miss your chance to see it in real-time.

What is Cowboy Carter?

Beyoncé’s latest album, Cowboy Carter, is a genre-defying work that blends country, R&B, hip-hop, funk, and soul elements. Since its release earlier this year, it’s broken streaming records, earned multiple Grammy nominations, and sparked countless think pieces about its cultural impact, especially in the notoriously rigid country music industry.

The halftime show marks the first live performance of songs from Cowboy Carter, making this a must-watch event for fans and pop culture aficionados. And if you've been waiting for Bey to drop the album visuals, you'll want to tune in.

With its bold storytelling and sonic diversity, the album has become one of Beyoncé’s most celebrated works, and anticipation is sky-high to see how she brings it to life on stage.

What songs will Beyoncé perform?

The setlist is anyone’s guess — only Beyoncé knows the answer to this most pressing question — but we can expect a mix of high-energy anthems and emotionally resonant tracks from Cowboy Carter. Some likely contenders include:

"YA YA"

A fan-favorite for a good reason, "YA YA" fuses vibrant funk, thumping rock 'n' roll, cheeky lyricism, relentless Tina Turner-esque soul, an interpolation of the Beach Boys' "Good Vibrations," and a powerhouse vocal performance into one glorious showstopper.

"BLACKBIRD"

On this gorgeous reimagining of The Beatles classic, Beyoncé croons alongside four rising Black women country stars: Tanner Adell, Reyna Roberts, Tiera Kennedy, and Brittney Spencer.

"II MOST WANTED"

Nominated for Best Country Duo/Group Performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards, this soaring ballad finds Beyoncé and Miley Cyrus channeling full Thelma & Louise energy. Its heartfelt lyrics and sweeping melody could provide the perfect slow moment amid an otherwise high-energy set.

"SPAGHETTI"

Don’t sleep on Beyoncé’s bars; she can rap when she wants to, and this track proves it. At first glance, it might seem like an unconventional pick, but hear me out — it’s the only song on the album that delivers its thesis statement: "Genres are a funny little concept, aren’t they? Yes, they are," declares country legend Linda Martell in a spoken-word intro. The song also features Shaboozey, the genre-defying country star whose breakout Hot 100 hit, "A Bar Song (Tipsy)," has made him one to watch this year.

"Texas Hold 'Em"

If the Houston Texans are playing, you better believe that Houston native Beyoncé will pull out all the stops for a foot-stomping, barn-burning performance of "Texas Hold 'Em."

"Jolene"

Imagine B and Dolly P on the same stage for a performance of "Jolene" that combines Dolly's timeless, plaintive storytelling with Beyoncé's powerful vocal dynamism. This duet could reimagine the classic in a way that pays homage to its roots while infusing it with a more modern flair. (It would also send a statement to the Country Music Association.)

Who might join Beyoncé on stage?

While the lineup of special guests remains under wraps, speculation is swirling about who might join Beyoncé during her performance. Will we see a duet with a country superstar? A surprise cameo from someone unexpected? Or perhaps a family moment with her daughter Blue Ivy?

Fans are hoping for appearances from the collaborators featured on Cowboy Carter. Shaboozey and Miley Cyrus, both pivotal voices on the album, seem like natural choices for cameos. Their distinctive styles mesh seamlessly with Beyoncé's genre-blending vision, and their presence would electrify the halftime stage.

Some country icons who lent their talents to the album, such as the legendary Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson, could also appear. These collaborations significantly shaped the album’s narrative, bridging traditional country with contemporary flair.

Let’s not overlook the contributions of Black country musicians who have added richness and depth to the album's soundscape. A potential appearance by Rhiannon Giddens, whose masterful banjo licking embodies the intersection of country, folk, and Black musical traditions, would be a powerful moment that underscores the album's cultural significance.

The possibilities are endless, given Beyoncé’s history of pulling off jaw-dropping surprises. One thing is certain: She knows how to share a stage without losing an ounce of her shine.