Skip to content
TIANNBO

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Futoshiki

Play Futoshiki ↗

Game guide · TIANNBO

Follow the steps for Futoshiki

Bring your attention to one round of Futoshiki. Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Use the example below to understand a decision. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.

Try a more deliberate round

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

Your goal

Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Keep the controls in easy reach.

Start here and follow along

  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. Check any mode label before starting.

Put the rules into context

r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Keep the game’s format in mind.

One detail worth checking

An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Common questions

For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Futoshiki?

The key detail is this: Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality.

On this playing page, how do I control Futoshiki?

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.

Before I begin, what example helps explain Futoshiki?

The key detail is this: r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3.

While learning, what should I watch out for in Futoshiki?

Here is the relevant explanation: An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference.

What format does Futoshiki offer?

Here is the relevant explanation: Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.

As a new player, which play mode does Futoshiki use?

Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

For my first round, where should I start with Futoshiki?

Select an editable square.

For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Futoshiki?

The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

When I return, 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 a quick reminder, how do I report an issue with Futoshiki?

For clarity: 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.

Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)