Can You Solve Today's Puzzles and Games?

Are you ready to put your problem-solving skills to the test? Today's puzzles and games offer a range of challenges for all levels, from the New York Times' Pips and Connections Sports Edition to Hurdle and a fascinating look at the Moon's current phase.

First up, let's dive into Pips, the NYT's latest game that puts a unique spin on dominoes. Released in August 2025, Pips has become a daily habit for many gamers. However, if you're stuck, don't worry – we've got you covered with piecemeal answers that will serve as hints to help you navigate each difficulty level.

For those who have played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity with how Pips is played. The tiles, like dominoes, are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. However, the main difference between traditional dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match, making it a fun and challenging game.

If you're a sports fan, you'll love Connections Sports Edition, the latest daily word game from the New York Times. This game is all about finding the "common threads between words," and with its association with The Athletic, it's a must-play for anyone who loves sports. We've got hints and tips to help you solve today's puzzle, so keep reading.

But what about Hurdle, the daily word game that's similar to Wordle? We've got you covered with hints and answers to help you overcome any obstacles. With five rounds to the game, it's a great challenge for those who love word games.

And finally, let's take a look at the Moon's current phase. As of February 23, the Moon phase is Waxing Crescent, with 36% of the Moon lit up tonight. According to NASA's Daily Moon Guide, you can spot several features on the Moon's surface, including the Fecunditatis, Tranquillitatis, and Serenitatis Mares. With binoculars, you can also see the Endymion Crater, the Mare Nectaris, and the Posidonius Crater.

In other news, have you ever wondered about cloning a cat? A recent discussion on Hacker News sparked an interesting debate about the feasibility and ethics of cloning a pet. While it's possible to clone a cat, it's not a straightforward process, and the cost can be steep – around $60,000. However, as one commenter pointed out, even a successful clone will only be physically identical, not behaviorally.

In conclusion, today's puzzles and games offer a range of challenges for all levels. Whether you're a fan of word games, dominoes, or astronomy, there's something for everyone. So why not give them a try and see how you fare?

Sources:

• New York Times: Pips hints and answers for February 23, 2026
• New York Times: Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for February 23, 2026
• Hacker News: Ask HN: Have you ever cloned a cat?
• Hurdle hints and answers for February 23, 2026
• Moon phase today: What the Moon will look like on February 23