Game guide · MAIKEWU
An introduction to playing Nurikabe
Try Nurikabe at your own pace and keep its objective in view. 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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
A focus for your next round
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
Step by step
- 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.
Your inputs
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. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
An example before you play
An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Keep the controls nearby.
Watch out for this
Two numbered islands may not merge into one. Compare the situation with the worked example. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Answers about the rules and controls
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Nurikabe?
Create one connected sea around numbered islands of exactly the stated size, without a 2×2 sea block.
As a new player, how do I control Nurikabe?
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.
While learning, what example helps explain Nurikabe?
Here is the relevant explanation: An island labelled 1 is already complete, so its edge neighbours must be sea.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Nurikabe?
Here is the relevant explanation: Two numbered islands may not merge into one.
For this browser game, what format does Nurikabe offer?
For clarity: Play ten compact 5×5 puzzles. Some boards begin with fixed shaded sea cells.
As a new player, which play mode does Nurikabe use?
The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
As a new player, where should I start with Nurikabe?
Keep this in mind: Shade sea squares and leave islands white.
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.
How can I find Nurikabe again?
Keep this in mind: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Nurikabe?
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.