THE PLAYBOOK · ZBZHETONG
How to play Shikaku
Start Shikaku by looking at the playing area and its controls. Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area. Use the example below to understand a decision. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Solve ten 5×5 rectangle puzzles. Each clue belongs to exactly one rectangle of the stated area.
Build a steady rhythm
Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
Step by step
- Choose a rectangle’s opposite corners.
- It must contain one clue and have the matching area.
- Click an existing rectangle to remove it.
- Cover every square to finish.
Controls
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. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
A useful example
A clue 6 may occupy a 2×3 rectangle when other clues allow it. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Check the stated objective.
Watch out for this
No rectangle may contain two clues or overlap another. Check the rule before repeating the action. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Common questions
For my first round, what is the goal of Shikaku?
Here is the relevant explanation: Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area.
On this playing page, how do I control Shikaku?
Keep this in mind: Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Shikaku?
Keep this in mind: A clue 6 may occupy a 2×3 rectangle when other clues allow it.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Shikaku?
Keep this in mind: No rectangle may contain two clues or overlap another.
On this playing page, what format does Shikaku offer?
Keep this in mind: Solve ten 5×5 rectangle puzzles. Each clue belongs to exactly one rectangle of the stated area.
For a quick reminder, 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.
