【Melodrama Archives】

The Melodrama ArchivesMini 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.

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Thursday, January 30, 2025:

Across

Soft rock

• The answer is Talc.

First-string squad

• The answer is ATeam.

Soft rock?

• The answer is Magma.

Tissue layers, e.g.

• The answer is Plies.

Fiona Apple and Tracy Chapman, vocally

• The answer is Altos.

Down

Florida's so-called "Cigar City"

• The answer is Tampa.

To any degree

• The answer is AtAll.

Not sketchy, colloquially

• The answer is Legit.

Brief role in a movie

• The answer is Cameo.

Midnight ___ (Christmas service)

• The answer is Mass.

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

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 the latest Mini Crossword.

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