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Nurikabe: instructions and practice

Practice with a purpose

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 objective

Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Try to explain the aim in your own words.

The order of play

  1. Shade sea squares and leave islands white.
  2. Every island contains exactly one clue.
  3. Different islands cannot meet along an edge.
  4. Check puzzle verifies sizes, connectivity and forbidden sea blocks.

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. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

Try this example

An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Notice the change in the playing area.

Avoid this misunderstanding

Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Check the rule before repeating the action. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.

Common questions

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.

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.

While learning, what example helps explain Nurikabe?

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?

Keep this in mind: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.

While learning, what format does Nurikabe offer?

For clarity: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.

As a new player, which play mode does Nurikabe use?

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

On this playing page, where should I start with Nurikabe?

The key detail is this: Shade sea squares and leave islands white.

Before I begin, 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.

As a new player, how can I find Nurikabe again?

Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

How do I report an issue with Nurikabe?

Keep this in mind: 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.