How Futoshiki works
A number square with a twist. The signs between squares give you the clues that a Sudoku keeps in its boxes.
- Rows and columns. Each of the numbers 1 to n appears once in every row and every column of an n by n grid.
- Signs. A sign between two squares tells you which is larger. The point of the sign is toward the smaller number.
- Given numbers. Some squares are filled in at the start and cannot be changed.
- Playing. Tap a square and choose its number. Red numbers clash with the rules.
Tips for Futoshiki
- Extremes. A square that must be smaller than a neighbour cannot be the biggest number, and one that must be larger cannot be 1.
- Chains. If a < b < c, then a is at most n minus 2, and c is at least 3.
- Use the lines. When only one square in a row can hold a number, put it there.
- Check yourself. Check marks only the wrong numbers.
More puzzles to try
Frequently asked questions
What are the rules of Futoshiki?
Fill a square grid so that every row and every column contains each number from 1 to the size of the grid exactly once. Signs between squares show which neighbour is larger: the narrow end of the sign points at the smaller number. Some numbers are given.
What does Futoshiki mean?
It is Japanese for "inequality". The puzzle is a Latin square with inequality signs, a relative of Sudoku.
What sizes are there?
Easy is 5 by 5, medium is 6 by 6 and hard is 7 by 7. Every puzzle has exactly one solution that can be reached by logic.
How do you read the signs?
A sign between two squares works like the symbols in maths: it is the same as writing 2 < 4. The sharp point of the sign faces the smaller square and the open end faces the larger one.
How do I start?
Look for squares with a sign that forces a value. A square that must be smaller than three others cannot hold the highest numbers. In a 5 by 5 grid a square that is larger than something can never be 1, and one that is smaller than something can never be 5.
Is there a daily Futoshiki?
Yes. Press Daily for today's puzzle, the same for everybody, and sign in to add your time to the leaderboard.
Can I get a hint?
Hint fills in one square. Check marks the squares that are wrong. Squares that break a rule turn red as you play.