THE PLAYBOOK · HBZQCZZ
How to play Nurikabe
Choose a round of Nurikabe and settle into its rules. 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. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Look at what changes after your first action.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
Notice the feedback
Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. 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. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
A useful example
An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Verify the rule before continuing.
Watch out for this
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.
Common questions
For my first round, 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.
For my first round, how do I control Nurikabe?
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?
Here is the relevant explanation: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.
For my first round, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?
Here is the relevant explanation: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.
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?
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.