Sudoku
Free online number puzzle · New puzzle every day · No sign-up
Sudoku in a nutshell
Sudoku is a number puzzle played on a grid of 9 by 9 squares. You fill in the empty squares so that every row, every column and every 3 by 3 box contains the numbers 1 to 9 exactly once. No maths is needed, only careful logic.
- Look at the grid. The grid has 9 rows, 9 columns and 9 boxes of 3 by 3 squares. Some numbers are already filled in.
- Learn the one rule. Each row, each column and each box must contain the numbers 1 to 9, once each.
- Find an easy square. Look for a row, column or box that is nearly full. The missing number is easy to spot.
- Scan for a number. Pick a number, such as 5, and see where it already appears. That rules out squares in the same rows, columns and boxes.
At a glance
- Players
- 1 player at your own pace
- Length
- 5 to 30 minutes depending on difficulty
- Equipment
- 9 by 9 grid or pencil and paper
- Learn it in
- 2 minutes one simple rule
Sudoku questions
Do you need to be good at maths to play Sudoku?
Not at all. The numbers are only used as symbols. You could play with nine letters or colours instead; it is a puzzle of logic, not sums.
Can a Sudoku have more than one answer?
A properly made Sudoku has exactly one solution. If you find more than one, the puzzle was not made correctly, or a mistake has crept in.
What should I do when I am stuck?
Go through the numbers 1 to 9 one at a time and scan each box. Pencil marks also help you spot squares where only one number is possible.
What is the difference between easy and hard Sudoku?
Easy puzzles have more numbers filled in and can be solved with simple scanning. Harder ones need more advanced techniques that look at how possibilities interact.
Is there a new Sudoku every day?
Yes. GamesBento has a new daily puzzle every day in Easy, Medium and Hard, and everyone gets the same puzzle on the same date. Solve one each day to build a streak.
More free logic puzzles
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MinesweeperClear the field using the numbers.
CalcudokuSudoku with sums in each cage.
Binary PuzzleFill with 0s and 1s by three simple rules.
Code BreakerFind the hidden colour code.
Memory MatchTurn over the cards two at a time and find every matching pair.