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Hitori: instructions and practice

One thing to notice as you play

Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Keep the objective visible.

The objective of a round

Shade repeated numbers while keeping black cells separated and all white cells connected. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.

How a round unfolds

  1. Click a cell to shade, mark or clear it.
  2. No unshaded number may repeat in a row or column.
  3. Black cells cannot share an edge.
  4. Check puzzle verifies duplicates and connectivity.

Keyboard and screen controls

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

See the idea in action

Two identical unshaded numbers in one row cannot both remain. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Verify the rule before continuing.

A common point of confusion

Removing every duplicate can disconnect white cells. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.

Questions that come up during play

While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Hitori?

Keep this in mind: Shade repeated numbers while keeping black cells separated and all white cells connected.

How do I control Hitori?

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 Hitori?

Keep this in mind: Two identical unshaded numbers in one row cannot both remain.

What should I watch out for in Hitori?

For clarity: Removing every duplicate can disconnect white cells.

What format does Hitori offer?

The key detail is this: Play twelve 5×5 puzzles. Any shaded starting cells remain fixed.

While learning, which play mode does Hitori 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.

Before I begin, where should I start with Hitori?

Here is the relevant explanation: Click a cell to shade, mark or clear it.

As a new player, do I need an account or a payment for Hitori?

No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

As a new player, how can I find Hitori again?

Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

As a new player, how do I report an issue with Hitori?

Keep this in mind: 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.