Wordle bought by New York Times and suggestion it may not be free in future

The game will initially remain free to new and existing players

'It has been incredible to watch the game bring so much joy to so many.'

Popular online game Wordle has been bought from its creator by The New York Times Company, and the paper has hinted it may not be free to play in future.

Software engineer Josh Wardle has said he decided to sell the virtual puzzle after it snowballed and became "overwhelming" to run, and the NYT has said it will "initially remain free".