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Nurikabe: how a round works

Practice beyond the first move

Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. 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. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Start with a deliberate move.

Making your moves

  1. Shade sea squares and leave islands white.
  2. Every island contains exactly one clue.
  3. Different islands cannot meet along an edge.
  4. 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. Check any mode label before starting.

One way to understand the rules

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. Consider the next action carefully.

Watch out for this

Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Common questions

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

The key detail is this: 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?

Keep this in mind: 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.

For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?

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

As a new player, what format does Nurikabe offer?

Here is the relevant explanation: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.

While learning, which play mode does Nurikabe use?

Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

On this playing page, where should I start with Nurikabe?

For clarity: Shade sea squares and leave islands white.

On this playing page, do I need an account or a payment for Nurikabe?

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 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?

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.