THE PLAYBOOK · 09JB
A practical guide to Nurikabe
Nurikabe gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Begin with the solo mode shown on the page. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
Take a closer look while playing
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Refer to the controls when needed.
Your objective
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.
How to proceed
- 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.
How to use the 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.
Follow the example
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. Notice the change in the playing area.
Keep this in mind
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. A different version of the game may use a different rule. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Questions about this game
On this playing page, what is the goal of Nurikabe?
Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.
How do I control Nurikabe?
Here is the relevant explanation: Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.
For my first round, what example helps explain Nurikabe?
For clarity: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.
What should I watch out for in Nurikabe?
Two numbered islands may not merge into one.
As a new player, what format does Nurikabe offer?
For clarity: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
While learning, which play mode does Nurikabe use?
The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.