THE PLAYBOOK · COEYSHOES
A practical guide to Futoshiki
Take a moment with Futoshiki before moving to another game. Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.
Practice with a purpose
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Notice the feedback after each input.
What you are aiming for
Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Keep the controls in easy reach.
The steps to play
- 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.
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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Look at the feedback after the action.
An example before you play
r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Consider the next action carefully.
Notice this detail
An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
More answers before you play
What is the goal of Futoshiki?
Here is the relevant explanation: Place 1–4 once in each row and column while obeying every inequality.
For my first round, how do I control Futoshiki?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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 Futoshiki?
For clarity: r1c2 < r1c3 means row 1 column 2 is smaller than row 1 column 3.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Futoshiki?
For clarity: An inequality specifies order, not an exact difference.
As a new player, what format does Futoshiki offer?
For clarity: Twelve 4×4 puzzles with fixed starter values.
While learning, which play mode does Futoshiki use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.