Kakuro

THE PLAYBOOK · XTTAOBAO

How to play Kakuro

Choose a round of Kakuro and settle into its rules. Complete a 4×4 sum grid with digits 1–9, no repeats in any row or column, and the displayed totals. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Check the rule that explains your first action. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

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. Refer to the controls when needed.

Your goal

Complete a 4×4 sum grid with digits 1–9, no repeats in any row or column, and the displayed totals. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Start with a deliberate move.

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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

A useful example

A row total 18 with fixed values 2, 4 and 7 requires 5 in the remaining cell. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Choose a deliberate next step.

Watch out for this

Repeated digits in a run are forbidden even when the sum matches. Check the rule before repeating the action. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.

Common questions