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Rules, controls and help for Nurikabe

One thing to notice as you play

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Make the next step deliberately.

The goal to keep in mind

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. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.

From the start of a round

  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 your actions work

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. Use one clear input at a time.

Work through an example

An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Keep the game’s format in mind.

Check this before moving on

Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.

Questions about this game

While learning, 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.

As a new player, 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?

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

For a quick reminder, 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.

For a quick reminder, 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.

For a quick reminder, where should I start with Nurikabe?

For clarity: Shade sea squares and leave islands white.

For my first round, do I need an account or a payment for Nurikabe?

No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For a quick reminder, 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.

As a new player, 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.