THE PLAYBOOK · 373GS
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. Check the rule that explains your first action. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
Read before acting
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Refer to the controls when needed.
Your goal
Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Take a moment to understand the current position.
Step by step
- Shade sea squares and leave islands white.
- Every island contains exactly one clue.
- Different islands cannot meet along an edge.
- 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. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
A useful example
An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Notice the change in the playing area.
Watch out for this
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Common questions
For this browser game, what is the goal of Nurikabe?
Keep this in mind: Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Nurikabe?
Keep this in mind: Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.
While learning, what example helps explain Nurikabe?
Keep this in mind: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.
What should I watch out for in Nurikabe?
For clarity: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.
For my first round, what format does Nurikabe offer?
Keep this in mind: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
For a quick reminder, which play mode does Nurikabe use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
