Futoshiki

Fill the grid so every row and column holds each number once — while obeying every less-than and greater-than sign between the cells.

How to play

Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to N exactly once, like a Latin square. The inequality signs printed between neighbouring cells must also be satisfied: the open end always points to the larger number. Use the given numbers and the signs to deduce the rest.

• No number repeats in any row or column
• Every < and > sign between two cells must hold true
• Duplicate conflicts and broken inequalities glow red as you play
• The puzzle is solved when the grid is full and every rule is satisfied

Controls

• Desktop: click a cell then type a digit; Backspace clears, arrow keys move, Space toggles Notes, or use the on-screen number pad
• Phone & tablet: tap a cell, then tap a number on the pad; use Notes for pencil marks and Hint if stuck

Game modes

• Three sizes: 4x4, 5x5, and 6x6
• Daily puzzle shared by everyone that day, or unlimited Practice puzzles

Tips & strategy

• Start where signs chain together — a cell forced below several others is often a 1, and one above several is often the maximum
• A cell at the small end of a sign can never be N; the large end can never be 1
• Use Notes to pencil candidates, then eliminate them as rows and columns fill

About Futoshiki

Futoshiki is a logic puzzle that crosses a Latin square with inequality constraints. This is an original, free browser version with daily and practice puzzles, notes, and hints — no download or sign-up required.

A free, original browser game on PlayPendium — no download, no install. Browse all games →