THE PLAYBOOK · ZJTANSHI
An introduction to playing Nurikabe
Open Nurikabe, check the instructions and begin a round. 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. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
Give this approach a try
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Notice the feedback after each input.
The goal to keep in mind
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. Keep the controls in easy reach.
The order of play
- 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.
Keyboard and screen controls
Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
Learn from a sample situation
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. Choose a deliberate next step.
Watch out for this
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Compare the situation with the worked example. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Helpful answers for players
When I return, what is the goal of Nurikabe?
The key detail is this: Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.
On this playing page, 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.
When I return, what example helps explain Nurikabe?
Keep this in mind: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?
Here is the relevant explanation: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.
Before I begin, what format does Nurikabe offer?
For clarity: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
On this playing page, 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.