‘Wordle’ creator Josh Wardle says the viral game will remain free even after it was bought out by the New York Times

Josh Wardle, the creator of the viral phenomenon Wordle revealed the New York Times “play a big part in its origins” following the American newspaper’s buyout of the mobile game, as he vowed that the game will remain free.

The New York Times announced on Monday, Jan. 31 that it had bought the mobile game for an “undisclosed price in the low seven figures.”

Wardle also made the announcement in a statement posted on Twitter on Tuesday, Feb. 1, describing the move as “very natural to me.”

An update on Wordle pic.twitter.com/TmHd0AIRLX

— Josh Wardle (@powerlanguish) January 31, 2022

“I am incredibly pleased to announce that I’ve reached an agreement with The New York Times for them to take over running Wordle going forward. If you’ve followed along with the story of Wordle, you’ll know that NYT games play a big part in its origins and so this step feels very natural to me,” Wardle said.

The Wordle creator added that he “long admired NYT’s approach” when it comes to managing its games and treating players with respect. “Their values are aligned with mine on these matters and I’m thrilled that they will be stewards of the game moving forward.”

Wardle also clarified that Wordle will remain “free to play for everyone” despite its move to the New York Times site. “I am working with them to make sure your wins and streaks will be preserved.”

“It has been incredible to watch a game bring so much joy to so many, and I feel so grateful for the personal stories some of you have shared with me,” Wardle said.

In a statement, The New York Times said that “no changes will be made” to Wordle. 

The addictive Wordle, which was launched in October 2021, is a mobile game that consists of guessing one five-letter word per day in just six tries.