Game guide · 05MC
Nurikabe: from controls to your first round
Make Nurikabe your next activity in the game library. Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Read the objective before making your first input. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
An idea for your next attempt
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Notice the feedback after each input.
The purpose of your moves
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. Notice how the game responds to your input.
How a round unfolds
- Shade sea squares and leave islands white.
- Every island contains exactly one clue.
- Different islands cannot meet along an edge.
- Check puzzle verifies sizes, connectivity and forbidden sea blocks.
Getting comfortable with the controls
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. Look at the feedback after the action.
See how the rules apply
An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Check the stated objective.
An important reminder
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Helpful answers for players
For this browser game, what is the goal of Nurikabe?
Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.
For my first round, how do I control Nurikabe?
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 Nurikabe?
Keep this in mind: 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?
For clarity: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.
While learning, what format does Nurikabe offer?
Keep this in mind: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
Before I begin, which play mode does Nurikabe use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
When I return, where should I start with Nurikabe?
Keep this in mind: Shade sea squares and leave islands white.
While learning, 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.
While learning, how can I find Nurikabe again?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.