THE PLAYBOOK · XZJSCM
How to play Futoshiki
Take a moment with Futoshiki before moving to another game. Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.
Keep the aim in sight
Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules. Refer to the controls when needed.
Your goal
Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
Step by step
- Select an editable square.
- Read inequalities by their row/column coordinates below the board.
- Enter 1–4.
- Check puzzle verifies both Latin-square rules and inequalities.
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. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
A useful example
r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Verify the rule before continuing.
Watch out for this
An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference. Compare the situation with the worked example. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Common questions
Before I begin, what is the goal of Futoshiki?
For clarity: Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality.
While learning, 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.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Futoshiki?
Keep this in mind: r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Futoshiki?
Here is the relevant explanation: An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference.
While learning, what format does Futoshiki offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.
On this playing page, which play mode does Futoshiki use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
