Classic Sudoku Puzzle Game
Play the world-famous Sudoku puzzle game online. Fill the grid with numbers 1-9, following Sudoku rules for rows, columns, and boxes.
What is Sudoku?
Sudoku is a logic-based number placement puzzle. In classic Sudoku, the objective is to fill a 9×9 grid with digits 1-9, following the essential Sudoku rules: each row, column, and 3×3 box must contain all numbers 1-9 without repetition.
How to Play Sudoku
Master the art of Sudoku with these fundamental rules and advanced Sudoku solving techniques:
Basic Sudoku Rules
- Each row in the Sudoku grid must contain numbers 1-9 without repetition
- Each column in the Sudoku puzzle must contain numbers 1-9 without repetition
- Each 3×3 box in the Sudoku board must contain numbers 1-9 without repetition
- Use the given numbers in the Sudoku grid as starting points
Sudoku Solving Techniques
- Scanning: Systematically scan rows and columns in your Sudoku puzzle to eliminate possibilities
- Cross-hatching: Find possible positions for numbers in Sudoku by checking rows and columns simultaneously
- Box Reduction: Eliminate possibilities in 3×3 Sudoku boxes based on surrounding numbers
- Hidden Pairs: Identify number pairs in Sudoku that can only appear in specific positions
The Rich History of Sudoku
Origins of Sudoku
The concept behind Sudoku originated from Leonhard Euler's Latin Squares in the 18th century. Modern Sudoku puzzles evolved from these mathematical principles into the engaging number puzzle we know today.
Sudoku Development
In 1984, Japanese puzzle company Nikoli refined and popularized Sudoku, giving it its current name. Sudoku means 'single numbers' in Japanese, reflecting the puzzle's core principle.
Modern Sudoku Era
Sudoku achieved international fame in 2004 when The Times of London began publishing daily Sudoku puzzles. Since then, Sudoku has become a global phenomenon with numerous variations and difficulty levels.
Sudoku Difficulty Levels
Easy Sudoku
Perfect for beginners learning Sudoku basics, with many numbers pre-filled
Medium Sudoku
Challenging Sudoku puzzles requiring basic solving techniques
Hard Sudoku
Advanced Sudoku challenges requiring multiple solving techniques
Expert Sudoku
Master-level Sudoku puzzles for the ultimate challenge
Benefits of Playing Sudoku
Mental Exercise
Regular Sudoku practice enhances logical thinking and problem-solving abilities
Memory Improvement
Sudoku helps strengthen short-term memory and pattern recognition
Problem Solving
Sudoku develops systematic thinking and analytical skills
Stress Relief
Focusing on Sudoku puzzles provides a meditative, relaxing experience
Essential Sudoku Tips
Start with easier Sudoku puzzles to learn basic techniques
Use pencil marks in your Sudoku grid to track possible numbers
Regularly check your Sudoku solution for mistakes
Learn to recognize common Sudoku patterns
Take breaks when stuck on challenging Sudoku puzzles