Game guide · HBYDMS
The essentials of playing Shikaku
Shikaku gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Solve ten 5×5 rectangle puzzles. Each clue belongs to exactly one rectangle of the stated area.
Something to practise
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Use the example to check your reasoning.
What you need to achieve
Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Start with a deliberate move.
The steps to play
- 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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
Try this example
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. Notice the change in the playing area.
One detail worth checking
No rectangle may contain two clues or overlap another. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. 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.
Answers about the rules and controls
While learning, what is the goal of Shikaku?
Keep this in mind: Cover the board with non-overlapping rectangles, each containing one clue equal to its area.
As a new player, 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.
As a new player, what example helps explain Shikaku?
The key detail is this: A clue 6 may occupy a 2×3 rectangle when other clues allow it.
On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Shikaku?
For clarity: No rectangle may contain two clues or overlap another.
Before I begin, what format does Shikaku offer?
Solve ten 5×5 rectangle puzzles. Each clue belongs to exactly one rectangle of the stated area.
For my first round, which play mode does Shikaku use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
For my first round, where should I start with Shikaku?
Here is the relevant explanation: Choose a rectangle’s opposite corners.
For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Shikaku?
No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
While reading the Guide, how can I find Shikaku again?
Keep this in mind: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Shikaku?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.
