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The essentials of playing Hitori

Try a more deliberate round

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Keep the objective visible.

The purpose of your moves

Shade repeated numbers while keeping black cells separated and all white cells connected. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. The example below illustrates a decision.

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.

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. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.

Put the rules into context

Two identical unshaded numbers in one row cannot both remain. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Take a moment to compare.

Keep this in mind

Removing every duplicate can disconnect white cells. A different version of the game may use a different rule. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.

A few questions answered

On this playing page, what is the goal of Hitori?

Here is the relevant explanation: Shade repeated numbers while keeping black cells separated and all white cells connected.

Before I begin, how do I control Hitori?

The key detail is this: Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.

What example helps explain Hitori?

For clarity: Two identical unshaded numbers in one row cannot both remain.

For my first round, what should I watch out for in Hitori?

Here is the relevant explanation: Removing every duplicate can disconnect white cells.

When I return, what format does Hitori offer?

Play twelve 5×5 puzzles. Any shaded starting cells remain fixed.

Before I begin, which play mode does Hitori use?

The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

Where should I start with Hitori?

For clarity: Click a cell to shade, mark or clear it.

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

Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For my first round, how can I find Hitori again?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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?

For clarity: 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.