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Futoshiki: what to know before playing

Practice with a purpose

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Make the next step deliberately.

Understand the aim

Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

Making your moves

  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.

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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Check any mode label before starting.

Learn from a sample situation

r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Verify the rule before continuing.

Notice this detail

An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference. Compare the situation with the worked example. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Questions that come up during play

On this playing page, what is the goal of Futoshiki?

The key detail is this: Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality.

When I return, how do I control Futoshiki?

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

For this browser game, what example helps explain Futoshiki?

Keep this in mind: r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3.

For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Futoshiki?

Here is the relevant explanation: An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference.

Before I begin, what format does Futoshiki offer?

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

While learning, which play mode does Futoshiki use?

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

For this browser game, where should I start with Futoshiki?

Here is the relevant explanation: Select an editable square.

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

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 Futoshiki 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 Futoshiki?

For clarity: 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.