THE PLAYBOOK · SZNTHZB
How to play Nurikabe
Take a moment with Nurikabe before moving to another game. Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
A useful comparison
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. 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. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
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. 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. Look for the relevant detail.
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
What is the goal of Nurikabe?
For clarity: Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.
When I return, 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.
For this browser game, what example helps explain Nurikabe?
The key detail is this: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.
While learning, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?
The key detail is this: 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.
Which play mode does Nurikabe use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.