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The Nurikabe playbook

Build familiarity through play

Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Use the example to check your reasoning.

Aim for this result

Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Read that aim before choosing your first action. 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.

The controls to know

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Check any mode label before starting.

A useful example

An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Take a moment to compare.

Notice this detail

Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Helpful answers for players

As a new player, 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?

For clarity: 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?

Keep this in mind: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.

When I return, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?

Keep this in mind: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.

While learning, what format does Nurikabe offer?

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

Which play mode does Nurikabe use?

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

Before I begin, where should I start with Nurikabe?

The key detail is this: Shade sea squares and leave islands white.

For this browser game, 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.

On this playing page, how can I find Nurikabe again?

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?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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.