THE PLAYBOOK · HONGYIWEN
How to play Nurikabe
Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Nurikabe. Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. 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. Make the next step deliberately.
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. 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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Use one clear input at a time.
A useful example
An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Take a moment to compare.
Watch out for this
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Compare the situation with the worked example. Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round.
Common questions
While learning, 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.
As a new player, how do I control Nurikabe?
For clarity: Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.
For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Nurikabe?
For clarity: 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.
For my first round, what format does Nurikabe offer?
The key detail is this: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
While reading the Guide, which play mode does Nurikabe use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.