THE PLAYBOOK · ZOEHERO
Shikaku: how a round works
Take a moment with Shikaku before moving to another game. Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Begin with the solo mode shown on the page. 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.
A small practice goal
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Notice the feedback after each input.
The purpose of your moves
Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Keep the controls in easy reach.
From the start of a round
- 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.
Using the playing area
Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. Use the control method described here for this activity. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
One way to understand the rules
A clue 6 may occupy a 2×3 rectangle when other clues allow it. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Check the stated objective.
Where a round can go wrong
No rectangle may contain two clues or overlap another. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Questions about this game
For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Shikaku?
For clarity: Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area.
As a new player, how do I control Shikaku?
The key detail is this: Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Shikaku?
A clue 6 may occupy a 2×3 rectangle when other clues allow it.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Shikaku?
The key detail is this: No rectangle may contain two clues or overlap another.
For this browser game, what format does Shikaku offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Solve ten 5×5 rectangle puzzles. Each clue belongs to exactly one rectangle of the stated area.
While learning, which play mode does Shikaku use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.