How to Play Kakuro

THE PLAYBOOK · JINHUIBLIND

How to play Kakuro

Start Kakuro by looking at the playing area and its controls. Complete a 4×4 sum grid with digits 1–9, no repeats in any row or column, and the displayed totals. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Practise sums on twelve small, unblocked 4×4 grids. These teaching boards use whole-row and whole-column totals rather than the blocked runs of classic Kakuro.

Notice the feedback

Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Use the example to check your reasoning.

Your goal

Complete a 4×4 sum grid with digits 1–9, no repeats in any row or column, and the displayed totals. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. The example below illustrates a decision.

Step by step

1. Compare a row total with its fixed entries.
2. Use the column total for the same blank.
3. Enter digits 1–9.
4. Check puzzle verifies totals and non-repetition.

Controls

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. Use one clear input at a time.

A useful example

A row total 18 with fixed values 2, 4 and 7 requires 5 in the remaining cell. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Verify the rule before continuing.

Watch out for this

Repeated digits in a run are forbidden even when the sum matches. Check the rule before repeating the action. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.

Common questions