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SBBEN

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Futoshiki

Play Futoshiki ↗

Game guide · SBBEN

Futoshiki: learn through an example

Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Futoshiki. Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.

Give this approach a try

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Make the next step deliberately.

The goal to keep in mind

Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

The order of play

  1. Select an editable square.
  2. Read inequalities by their row/column coordinates below the board.
  3. Enter 1–4.
  4. Check puzzle verifies both Latin-square rules and inequalities.

The controls to know

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. Use the control method described here for this activity. A new-round button replaces the current round.

Work through an example

r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Notice the change in the playing area.

Check this before moving on

An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference. Compare the situation with the worked example. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Further help with the game

As a new player, what is the goal of Futoshiki?

Keep this in mind: Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality.

As a new player, how do I control Futoshiki?

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.

As a new player, what example helps explain Futoshiki?

Here is the relevant explanation: r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3.

For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Futoshiki?

An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference.

When I return, what format does Futoshiki offer?

Here is the relevant explanation: Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.

When I return, which play mode does Futoshiki use?

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

For my first round, where should I start with Futoshiki?

Here is the relevant explanation: Select an editable square.

For my first round, do I need an account or a payment for Futoshiki?

Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For a quick reminder, how can I find Futoshiki again?

Keep this in mind: 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 Futoshiki?

The key detail is this: 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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