How to Play
- 1
Draw paths to connect each pair of matching numbers.
- 2
Paths can only go horizontally or vertically — no diagonals.
- 3
Every single cell on the grid must be covered.
- 4
Paths cannot cross or overlap each other.
ℹ️About This Game
Number Link is a classic Japanese logic puzzle that first appeared in Nikoli magazine in 1993. The goal is deceptively simple: connect each pair of matching numbers with a continuous path, while filling every cell on the grid. The constraint that every cell must be used is what makes it challenging — paths must be carefully routed to avoid leaving gaps or creating dead ends. Number Link is entirely solvable by logic, and well-crafted puzzles have exactly one solution. It's a popular daily puzzle in Japan.
💡Tips & Strategy
- 1
Start from corners and edges — paths near the border have fewer routing options.
- 2
Short paths between close numbers should be placed first to avoid blocking longer paths.
- 3
If a number is surrounded, only one path can exit — trace it immediately.
- 4
Work backwards: if you see only one way a path can reach its destination without leaving a gap, commit to it.
❓FAQ
Q. Do all paths need to fill every cell?
Yes! Every single cell on the grid must be covered by a path. This is what makes Number Link tricky — you can't just connect numbers with the shortest path.
Q. Can paths cross?
No, paths cannot cross or share any cell. Each path must stay completely separate from all others.
Q. Is there always one solution?
Well-designed Number Link puzzles have exactly one unique solution, solvable by logic without guessing.
