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RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Shikaku

Play Shikaku ↗

Game guide · DTJSMODEL

Shikaku: what to know before playing

Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Shikaku. Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Look at what changes after your first action.

Solve ten 5×5 rectangle puzzles. Each clue belongs to exactly one rectangle of the stated area.

Give this approach a try

Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Make the next step deliberately.

The purpose of your moves

Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. The example below illustrates a decision.

Work through the instructions

  1. Choose a rectangle’s opposite corners.
  2. It must contain one clue and have the matching area.
  3. Click an existing rectangle to remove it.
  4. Cover every square to finish.

Making selections and moves

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Use one clear input at a time.

Work through an example

A clue 6 may occupy a 2×3 rectangle when other clues allow it. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Verify the rule before continuing.

A useful caution

No rectangle may contain two clues or overlap another. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.

Answers about the rules and controls

As a new player, what is the goal of Shikaku?

Keep this in mind: Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area.

While learning, how do I control Shikaku?

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.

For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Shikaku?

Here is the relevant explanation: A clue 6 may occupy a 2×3 rectangle when other clues allow it.

As a new player, what should I watch out for in Shikaku?

Here is the relevant explanation: No rectangle may contain two clues or overlap another.

For my first round, what format does Shikaku offer?

Solve ten 5×5 rectangle puzzles. Each clue belongs to exactly one rectangle of the stated area.

While reading the Guide, which play mode does Shikaku use?

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

Before I begin, where should I start with Shikaku?

The key detail is this: Choose a rectangle’s opposite corners.

Before I begin, do I need an account or a payment for Shikaku?

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

For this browser game, how can I find Shikaku again?

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 Shikaku?

The key detail is this: 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.

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