How to Play Nurikabe

THE PLAYBOOK · EEQUN

How to play Nurikabe

Start Nurikabe by looking at the playing area and its controls. Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Use the example below to understand a decision. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.

Focus on one rule

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Notice the feedback after each input.

Your goal

Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Take a moment to understand the current position.

Step by step

1. Shade sea squares and leave islands white.
2. Every island contains exactly one clue.
3. Different islands cannot meet along an edge.
4. Check puzzle verifies sizes, connectivity and forbidden sea blocks.

Controls

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

A useful example

An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Notice the change in the playing area.

Watch out for this

Two numbered islands may not merge into one. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Common questions