How to Play Futoshiki
1
Fill The Grid
Fill the 5×5 grid so every row and column contains each of the numbers 1 through 5 exactly once.
2
Obey The Signs
Obey every inequality sign between adjacent cells. A < sign means the left cell must be smaller than the right cell; a > sign means it must be larger. Vertical arrows follow the same rule top-to-bottom.
3
Find Chains
Start with cells that have the most constraints — look for chains like A < B < C, which tightly restrict all three values at once.
Futoshiki FAQ
How do I play Futoshiki?
- Fill the 5x5 grid with numbers 1 through 5.
- Each number must appear exactly once in every row and column.
- Respect the inequality signs (< and >) between cells; the numbers you place must satisfy these math constraints.
What are other names for Futoshiki?
Futoshiki is known globally as More or Less, Unequal, Hutoshiki, and
Inequality.
How is Futoshiki different from Sudoku?
While both are Latin Square puzzles, Sudoku uses 3×3 block
constraints in a 9×9 grid, whereas Futoshiki uses inequality signs (> and <) between
adjacent cells in a smaller 5×5 grid. Futoshiki requires reasoning about relative values
rather than absolute placements.
What grid sizes does Futoshiki come in?
The most common size is 5×5, but Futoshiki can also be played on
4×4, 6×6, 7×7, and even 9×9 grids. Larger grids provide significantly
more challenge as candidate interactions increase exponentially.
Do I need to be good at math?
No arithmetic is required. Futoshiki is a pure logic puzzle. You only need
to understand “greater than” and “less than” relationships. The numbers
1–5 are simply symbols representing an ordered sequence.
Can Futoshiki puzzles be solved without guessing?
Yes. Every puzzle on Daily Logic Games has a single unique solution that
can be reached entirely through logical deduction. Guessing is never required.
What is the best starting strategy for Futoshiki?
Look for absolute extremes. For example, in a 5x5 grid, a cell with a
“<” pointing away from it cannot be a 5, and a cell with a “>”
pointing towards it cannot be a 1.
Are there advanced Futoshiki techniques?
Yes. As puzzles get harder, you must use techniques like hidden singles,
naked pairs, and chain implications where A < B < C restricts the possible values for all
three cells.
Can a 5x5 Futoshiki have multiple solutions?
A properly designed Futoshiki puzzle will always have exactly one unique
solution. If you find multiple valid grid fills, the puzzle is logically flawed.