What was the primary purpose for loyalists wanting to capture and control New York?

The primary purpose for loyalists wanting to capture and control New York was to establish a stronghold for their cause in the American Revolutionary War. New York City was a major hub of trade, commerce, and influence in the colonies, and controlling the city would have been a significant victory for the loyalists.

Additionally, securing New York would have allowed loyalists to sever the connection between the Northern and Southern colonies and potentially secure more support for the British crown in the region.