Skip to content
69ZUOWEN

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Futoshiki

Play Futoshiki ↗

Game guide · 69ZUOWEN

Futoshiki: rules and examples

Take a moment with Futoshiki before moving to another game. Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.

Give this approach a try

When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Refer to the controls when needed.

The purpose of your moves

Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Take a moment to understand the current position.

Start here and follow along

  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.

Controls

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

One way to understand the rules

r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Read the matching step again.

A mistake to avoid

An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference. 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 that come up during play

While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Futoshiki?

Keep this in mind: Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality.

While reading the Guide, how do I control Futoshiki?

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.

As a new player, what example helps explain Futoshiki?

r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3.

When I return, what should I watch out for in Futoshiki?

An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference.

What format does Futoshiki offer?

Here is the relevant explanation: Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.

Before I begin, which play mode does Futoshiki 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.

For my first round, where should I start with Futoshiki?

Select an editable square.

For my first round, do I need an account or a payment for Futoshiki?

Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

While learning, how can I find Futoshiki again?

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

As a new player, how do I report an issue with Futoshiki?

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.

Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)