Game guide · HNSGYQT
Nurikabe: what to know before playing
Start Nurikabe by looking at the playing area and its controls. Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Look at what changes after your first action. Read the objective before making your first input. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
Practice beyond the first move
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Notice the feedback after each input.
The purpose of your moves
Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Read that aim before choosing your first action. The example below illustrates a decision.
How a round unfolds
- 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.
Work through an example
An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Take a moment to compare.
An important reminder
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Compare the situation with the worked example. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Helpful answers for players
For my first round, what is the goal of Nurikabe?
Keep this in mind: Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.
Before I begin, 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.
While learning, what example helps explain Nurikabe?
Here is the relevant explanation: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?
Two numbered islands may not merge into one.
For this browser game, what format does Nurikabe offer?
The key detail is this: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
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.
For a quick reminder, where should I start with Nurikabe?
For clarity: Shade sea squares and leave islands white.
For this browser game, do I need an account or a payment for Nurikabe?
Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
Before I begin, how can I find Nurikabe again?
For clarity: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
For this browser game, how do I report an issue with Nurikabe?
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.