How to Play Futoshiki

THE PLAYBOOK · XHYWQHY

Futoshiki: learn through an example

Futoshiki gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Check the rule that explains your first action. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.

Give this approach a try

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. Use the example to check your reasoning.

What you need to achieve

Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Review the board or playing area as it changes.

The playing sequence

1. Select an editable square.
2. Read inequalities by their row/column coordinates below the board.
3. Enter 1–4.
4. Check puzzle verifies both Latin-square rules and inequalities.

Using the playing area

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. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.

See how the rules apply

r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Look for the relevant detail.

A common point of confusion

An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. 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.

Clarifying the way this game works