Skip to content
JIEHUIDB

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Nurikabe

Play Nurikabe ↗

Game guide · JIEHUIDB

An introduction to playing Nurikabe

Try Nurikabe at your own pace and keep its objective in view. 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. Read the objective before making your first input. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

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

One thing to notice as you play

Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Keep the objective visible.

What you need to achieve

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. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

Step by step

  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.

Using the playing area

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. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

A closer look at one 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. Verify the rule before continuing.

Avoid this misunderstanding

Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Helpful answers for players

As a new player, what is the goal of Nurikabe?

Here is the relevant explanation: Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.

While reading the Guide, 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?

For clarity: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.

For my first round, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?

Two numbered islands may not merge into one.

While learning, what format does Nurikabe offer?

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

Before I begin, which play mode does Nurikabe use?

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

As a new player, where should I start with Nurikabe?

Shade sea squares and leave islands white.

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.

When I return, 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.

While learning, how do I report an issue with Nurikabe?

Keep this in mind: 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.

Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)