What is Futoshiki?

Futoshiki is a funny logic puzzle game from Japan. In this game you need to fill all cells with numbers.

Some cells can be filled initially, the rest is filled by the player. The game is very similar to the game 'Sudoku', but has a difference. On the playing field, in addition to numbers, there may also be signs (more, less). The sign between two cells means that one number is greater than the other.

Rules of Futoshiki

A correctly filled square must satisfy the following three conditions:

Futoshiki Game

Why Play Futoshiki?

Playing Futoshiki offers multiple benefits, making it a valuable game for people of all ages. Here are some reasons why it is good to play Futoshiki:

Futoshiki Solving Tips

  1. Start with the Basics:
    • Begin by filling in the grid with possible numbers for each cell. Remember, the numbers in the grid must be between 1 and the size of the grid (e.g., 1 to 5 for a 5x5 grid).
    • Ensure that no number appears more than once in any row or column.
  2. Use Inequalities to Your Advantage:
    • Pay close attention to the inequality signs between the cells. These are crucial for determining the order of numbers.
    • Inequalities can often help you eliminate multiple possibilities in one go. For example, if a cell has a greater-than sign pointing to another cell, you know the first cell must contain a higher number.
  3. Look for Definites:
    • Sometimes, a row or column combined with inequalities will only allow for one possible number in a particular cell.
    • Whenever you place a number, revisit the inequalities affecting that number to see if they help you place others.
  4. Narrow Down Choices:
    • For cells that are not immediately obvious, write down all possible numbers that could go in each cell based on the current state of the grid.
    • Use the process of elimination wherever possible to narrow down these choices.
  5. Check Rows and Columns:
    • Regularly check each row and column for missing numbers. Consider what numbers can go in the blank spaces based on what’s already present and the inequalities.
    • Sometimes focusing on just one row or column can break a seemingly impossible deadlock in other parts of the grid.
  6. Use Logical Deduction:
    • As you progress, use logical reasoning to deduce the placement of the remaining numbers. Each number you place provides new information that can impact other decisions.
    • Keep an eye out for patterns or 'chains' of inequalities that can guide you in placing several numbers in sequence.
  7. Double-Check Your Moves:
    • Each move you make should be validated not just by the absence of repeated numbers in rows and columns, but also by ensuring all inequalities are correctly obeyed.
    • If you find yourself stuck, it can be helpful to backtrack and correct earlier mistakes.
  8. Practice Makes Perfect:
    • Like all puzzles, the more you play Futoshiki, the better you’ll get at spotting the patterns and tricks to solving them quickly.
  9. Stay Patient and Enjoy:
    • Take your time and enjoy the process of solving the puzzle. If you find yourself getting frustrated, take a break and return with fresh eyes.

Get Futoshiki

Ready to test your puzzle-solving skills with Futoshiki? You can find the game available for download on various platforms. Choose your preferred app store below and start playing!

Futoshiki is completely free to download and play, with no in-app purchases or subscriptions. Enjoy the full game without any hidden costs.

This game is perfect for playing on the go. You can play Futoshiki offline, making it ideal for those times when you're traveling to work or heading home on the train or bus. It's a great way to pass the time while sharpening your mind!