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LIER88

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Futoshiki

Play Futoshiki ↗

Game guide · LIER88

Making your first moves in Futoshiki

Futoshiki gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.

One thing to notice as you play

Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Use the example to check your reasoning.

What you need to achieve

Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Start with a deliberate move.

From the start of a round

  1. Select an editable square.
  2. Read inequalities by their row/column coordinates below the board.
  3. Enter 1–4.
  4. Check puzzle verifies both Latin-square rules and inequalities.

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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.

Work through an example

r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Keep the controls nearby.

Notice this detail

An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round.

Helpful answers for players

What is the goal of Futoshiki?

Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality.

While learning, how do I control Futoshiki?

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.

For this browser game, what example helps explain Futoshiki?

r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3.

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

The key detail is this: An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference.

When I return, what format does Futoshiki offer?

Keep this in mind: Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.

Which play mode does Futoshiki use?

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

While learning, where should I start with Futoshiki?

Keep this in mind: Select an editable square.

Do I need an account or a payment for Futoshiki?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For a quick reminder, how can I find Futoshiki again?

For clarity: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

While reading the Guide, how do I report an issue with Futoshiki?

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.

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