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CXCWGS

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Nurikabe

Play Nurikabe ↗

Game guide · CXCWGS

Follow the steps for Nurikabe

Bring your attention to one round of Nurikabe. 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. Read the objective before making your first input. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.

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

An idea for your next attempt

When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Use the example to check your reasoning.

The challenge in front of you

Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. The example below illustrates a decision.

Start here and follow along

  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.

Getting comfortable with the 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. A new-round button replaces the current round.

Follow the 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. Read the matching step again.

Avoid this misunderstanding

Two numbered islands may not merge into one. A different version of the game may use a different rule. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.

Game-specific help

What is the goal of Nurikabe?

Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.

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.

Before I begin, what example helps explain Nurikabe?

The key detail is this: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.

As a new player, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?

Two numbered islands may not merge into one.

While learning, what format does Nurikabe offer?

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

For my first round, which play mode does Nurikabe use?

The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

When I return, where should I start with Nurikabe?

Shade sea squares and leave islands white.

Do I need an account or a payment for Nurikabe?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

On this playing page, how can I find Nurikabe again?

The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Nurikabe?

For clarity: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.

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