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Rules, controls and help for Futoshiki

An idea for your next attempt

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Make the next step deliberately.

The goal to keep in mind

Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Review the board or playing area as it changes.

The order of play

  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.

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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

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. Consider the next action carefully.

Watch out for this

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.

Questions that come up during play

For my first round, what is the goal of Futoshiki?

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

On this playing page, how do I control Futoshiki?

The key detail is this: Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.

When I return, what example helps explain Futoshiki?

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

As a new player, what should I watch out for in Futoshiki?

Keep this in mind: An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference.

On this playing page, what format does Futoshiki offer?

Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.

For my first round, which play mode does Futoshiki 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.

While reading the Guide, where should I start with Futoshiki?

Select an editable square.

For my first round, 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.

While reading the Guide, how can I find Futoshiki 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.

For this browser game, how do I report an issue with Futoshiki?

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.