How to Play Nurikabe

THE PLAYBOOK · BOYUEJINSHU

Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Nurikabe. Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Begin with the solo mode shown on the page. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.

Focus on one rule

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Notice the feedback after each input.

Your goal

Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Check the rules when you are unsure.

Step by step

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.

Controls

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. A new-round button replaces the current round.

A useful example

An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Look for the relevant detail.

Watch out for this

Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Check the rule before repeating the action. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.

Common questions

When I return, what is the goal of Nurikabe?

For clarity: 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.

While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Nurikabe?

The key detail is this: 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?

The key detail is this: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.

For my first round, what format does Nurikabe offer?

The key detail is this: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.

As a new player, 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.