About Kakuro
Kakuro is a challenging Japanese number puzzle that combines the logic of a crossword with basic mathematics. Sometimes described as a mathematical version of a crossword, Kakuro uses numbers instead of letters. If you enjoy Sudoku, crosswords, or other logic puzzles, Kakuro is a great game to add to your puzzle routine.
Kakuro has become increasingly popular in North America and Europe and is regularly featured in newspapers, puzzle books, and math-and-logic puzzle publications. Although Kakuro puzzles can be challenging, they do not require advanced mathematics. The key to solving Kakuro is using logic, deduction, and the numbers already provided in the puzzle.
How to Play Kakuro
The objective of Kakuro is to fill the empty squares in the puzzle grid with numbers from 1 through 9. Each group of empty squares has a clue indicating the sum that the numbers in that group must equal.
For example, if a clue is 16 and there are two empty squares following that clue, you need to place two different numbers between 1 and 9 that add up to 16. The possible combination is 7 + 9. Because a number cannot be repeated within the same group, 8 + 8 would not be allowed.
Kakuro clues can run either across or down. A clue pointing to the right applies to the consecutive empty squares to its right. A clue pointing downward applies to the consecutive empty squares below it. Every empty square is therefore part of both an across group and a down group, which is what makes Kakuro a logic puzzle rather than simply a math exercise.
The Rules of Kakuro
The basic rules are simple:
- Fill each empty square with a number from 1 to 9.
- The numbers in each group must add up to the clue shown in the corresponding black square.
- You cannot repeat a number within the same group.
- Every number must satisfy both its across clue and its down clue.
- Each puzzle has one correct solution.
The same number can appear more than once in a puzzle, but it cannot appear twice in the same across or down group.
Solving Kakuro Puzzles
The easiest way to begin a Kakuro puzzle is to look for clues that have only a small number of possible combinations. Some sums and group lengths have very limited possibilities, making them excellent places to start.
For example, a two-square group with a sum of 3 can only be 1 + 2. A two-square group with a sum of 17 can only be 8 + 9. Once you determine those numbers, the intersecting down or across clues provide additional information that can help you determine which number belongs in each individual square.
As you work through the puzzle, each number you enter gives you more information about the surrounding squares. This process of elimination is the heart of Kakuro. You don't need to guess randomly. Instead, use the clues and intersecting groups to gradually narrow down the possibilities.
Kakuro and Sudoku
If you enjoy Sudoku, you will probably enjoy Kakuro as well. Both are logic puzzles that require careful deduction and attention to detail, but they use different solving techniques. Sudoku requires you to place numbers according to the rules of each row, column, and region, while Kakuro requires you to make numbers add up to specific clue totals.
Kakuro also has a crossword-like layout, which makes the puzzle easy to recognize. The combination of numbers, addition, logic, and deduction gives Kakuro its unique challenge.
Play Kakuro Online
Our online Kakuro game lets you solve puzzles directly in your web browser. Work through the clues, enter your numbers, and use the intersecting across and down groups to solve the puzzle. Take your time and use logic to work your way toward the solution.
Whether you are new to Kakuro or already enjoy solving challenging number puzzles, Kakuro online is a great way to test your logic and problem-solving skills. Start a puzzle and see how quickly you can work out the solution.
