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A practical guide to Hitori

One thing to notice as you play

Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Make the next step deliberately.

Understand the aim

Shade repeated numbers while keeping black cells separated and all white cells connected. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

The steps to play

  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.

Using the playing area

Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.

An example before you play

Two identical unshaded numbers in one row cannot both remain. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Choose a deliberate next step.

Pay attention to this rule

Removing every duplicate can disconnect white cells. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.

Questions about this game

For this browser game, what is the goal of Hitori?

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

As a new player, how do I control Hitori?

Keep this in mind: Click or tap squares or graph edges. Number boards include a digit pad. Undo reverses the previous change; Check puzzle validates the solution.

When I return, what example helps explain Hitori?

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

When I return, what should I watch out for in Hitori?

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

For my first round, what format does Hitori offer?

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

As a new player, which play mode does Hitori use?

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

For a quick reminder, where should I start with Hitori?

Click a cell to shade, mark or clear it.

For my first round, 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.

While reading the Guide, 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.

On this playing page, how do I report an issue with Hitori?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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.