Sudoku, a popular puzzle game that originated in Japan, has gained worldwide popularity due to its simple yet challenging nature. The game involves filling a 9×9 grid with digits so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3×3 sub-grids contain all of the digits from 1 to 9. But what if you’ve mastered Sudoku and are looking for a new challenge? This blog post explores games similar to Sudoku that will keep your brain engaged and entertained.
Games Like Sudoku
Following are the best puzzle games that are similar to Soduko:
1. Nonograms
Nonograms, also known as Picross or Griddlers, are logic puzzles that originated in Japan. In these puzzles, you are given a blank grid along with numbers for each row and column, which indicate the length of consecutive blocks of filled-in squares.
The goal is to fill in the grid in such a way that it reveals a hidden picture. Nonograms can be a fun and challenging alternative to Sudoku.
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2. Kakuro
Kakuro is often referred to as the mathematical crossword. This Japanese puzzle game is similar to Sudoku but adds a mathematical twist.
The goal is to fill in all the blank squares in the grid with digits from 1 to 9 so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the clue on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on its top. No digit can be repeated within a single sum, adding an extra layer of complexity.
3. KenKen
KenKen is another engaging puzzle game that combines the logic of Sudoku with arithmetic. Developed by a Japanese mathematics teacher, the game is played on a grid of varying sizes.
The grid is divided into heavily outlined groups of cells, each with a target number and an operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division). The numbers in each group must produce the target number using the specified operation.
4. Futoshiki
Futoshiki is a board-based puzzle game from Japan. Like Sudoku, it involves filling a grid with numbers. However, Futoshiki adds the element of inequality between neighboring squares.
The grid is filled with less than and greater than signs, and the goal is to place the numbers in such a way that these inequalities are met.
5. Hidato
Hidato is a pure logic puzzle that is played on a grid of cells, some of which contain numbers. The goal is to fill the grid with consecutive numbers that connect horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
Hidato puzzles can vary in complexity, from easy grids to more challenging ones, making them a great choice for puzzle enthusiasts of all levels.
6. Str8ts
Str8ts is a number puzzle that is similar to Sudoku but uses sequences of numbers instead of groups. The game is played on a grid, and the goal is to fill each row or column with a sequence of numbers without repeating any number.
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7. Killer Sudoku
Killer Sudoku is a variant of Sudoku that combines elements of Sudoku and Kakuro. In this game, the grid is divided into cages, each with a target number.
The numbers within each cage must add up to the target number, and as in Sudoku, no number can be repeated in any row or column.
8. Jigsaw Sudoku
Jigsaw Sudoku follows the same rules as Sudoku but adds a twist. Instead of regular 3×3 boxes, the 9×9 grid is divided up into regions that are irregular shapes.
Each of these regions must contain the numbers 1 through 9 exactly once, adding an extra layer of challenge to the puzzle.
9. Samurai Sudoku
Samurai Sudoku offers a more complex and challenging puzzle-solving experience. It consists of five overlapping Sudoku grids.
The standard Sudoku rules apply to each 9×9 grid. The added complexity comes from the overlapping areas which must obey the rules of more than one grid.
10. Binary Puzzle
The Binary Puzzle is a challenging logic puzzle that requires you to fill the grid with zeros and ones. The rules are simple: there should be an equal number of zeros and ones in each row and column, no more than two similar numbers next to or below each other, and each row and column should be unique. Despite its simplicity, Binary Puzzle can be quite challenging and is a great workout for your brain.
Online Puzzle Games
In the digital age, online games offer a plethora of puzzles to play. Websites and apps feature a variety of games similar to Sudoku, including the ones mentioned above, along with others like Futoshiki, Hidato, and Str8ts. These platforms often include tutorials, hints, and varying levels of difficulty, making them accessible to both beginners and seasoned puzzle enthusiasts.
Conclusion
While Sudoku holds a special place in the hearts of puzzle lovers, there’s a whole world of similar games out there waiting to be discovered. Whether you prefer the picture logic of Nonograms, the mathematical challenges of Kakuro and KenKen, or the convenience of online puzzle games, there’s something for everyone. So why wait? Dive into these games like Sudoku and keep your brain active and entertained.
