THE PLAYBOOK · DP2SX
An introduction to playing Nurikabe
Read the aim of Nurikabe, then make your first move. Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Read the objective before making your first input. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
Take a closer look while playing
Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Notice the feedback after each input.
What counts as success
Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Start with a deliberate move.
Work through the instructions
- 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 to interact with the game
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. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
See the idea in action
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.
A common point of confusion
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Questions that come up during play
Before I begin, what is the goal of Nurikabe?
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.
When I return, what example helps explain Nurikabe?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
For clarity: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.
On this playing page, what format does Nurikabe offer?
For clarity: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
When I return, which play mode does Nurikabe 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.