How Numbrix works
A number path puzzle. You are not adding or subtracting anything: you are finding the one route through the grid that visits the numbers in order.
- The grid. A square grid is partly filled. 1 and the highest number are always shown.
- The path. Every number from 1 up must touch the next one, above, below, left or right. Diagonals do not count.
- Filling in. Tap a square and type its number, or use the number keys under the grid. Two-digit numbers take two taps.
- Winning. The puzzle is solved when every square holds the right number. Red numbers are squares that clash with a rule.
Tips for Numbrix
- Start with the gaps. Two given numbers that are two apart (such as 8 and 10) have exactly one square between them that touches both.
- Work from the edges. Corner squares have only two neighbours, so their numbers are easier to place.
- Count the steps. A path from 20 to 30 needs ten moves. If two given squares are further apart than the numbers allow, one of them is placed wrongly.
- Use Check. It shows only the numbers that are wrong, without giving the answer.
More puzzles to try
Frequently asked questions
How do you play Numbrix?
Fill every square with a number from 1 to the last number of the grid (25, 49 or 81) so that each number is next to the following one, horizontally or vertically. Diagonals do not count. The numbers shown at the start stay where they are.
What are the rules of Numbrix?
Use every number once. 1 and the highest number are always given. Consecutive numbers must touch along a side, so the numbers form one unbroken path through all the squares.
How hard is each level?
Easy is a 5 by 5 grid with about half the numbers given. Medium is 7 by 7 with a third given. Hard is 9 by 9 with only a few numbers to start from.
Is there a trick to solving Numbrix?
Count the distance between two given numbers. If 12 and 15 are given, the numbers 13 and 14 must fit on a path of that length between them. A square can only hold a number whose neighbours still have room, and squares in the corners have only two neighbours, which narrows them down quickly.
How is Numbrix different from Hidato?
They are close cousins. Hidato also lets numbers touch diagonally and the starting numbers are scattered. In Numbrix only side-by-side squares count.
Is there a daily Numbrix?
Yes. Press Daily for a puzzle that is the same for everybody today. Create a free account and your time goes on the daily leaderboard.
Can I get a hint?
Yes. Hint fills in one square. Check marks the numbers that are wrong. Both are free, but the hint count is shown when you finish.