THE PLAYBOOK · HONGRENYOU
How to play 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. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
Review a difficult moment
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Keep the objective visible.
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. Use one clear input at a time.
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. Read the matching step again.
Watch out for this
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Common questions
When I return, what is the goal of Nurikabe?
Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Nurikabe?
The key detail is this: 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?
For clarity: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.
What format does Nurikabe offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
For my first round, which play mode does Nurikabe use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
