Game guide · SXLANJU
Play Nurikabe with the rules at hand
Try Nurikabe at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Use the example below to understand a decision. Read the objective before making your first input. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
Practice beyond the first move
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. Refer to the controls when needed.
Your goal
Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Review the board or playing area as it changes.
Making your moves
- 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.
How your actions work
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. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
A closer look at one 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. Keep the game’s format in mind.
Avoid this misunderstanding
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Compare the situation with the worked example. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Helpful answers for players
What is the goal of Nurikabe?
Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.
When I return, 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?
Keep this in mind: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.
While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?
Two numbered islands may not merge into one.
While reading the Guide, what format does Nurikabe offer?
For clarity: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
For a quick reminder, which play mode does Nurikabe use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
While learning, where should I start with Nurikabe?
Shade sea squares and leave islands white.
Do I need an account or a payment for Nurikabe?
The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
Before I begin, how can I find Nurikabe again?
The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
On this 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.