How to Play Slitherlink

THE PLAYBOOK · NMGAFT

How to play Slitherlink

Try Slitherlink at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Draw one closed loop whose edges match the count around every numbered cell. Use the example below to understand a decision. Begin with the solo mode shown on the page. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.

Ten 4×4 loop puzzles with all cell clues shown.

Make the controls familiar

Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Use the example to check your reasoning.

Your goal

Draw one closed loop whose edges match the count around every numbered cell. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Keep the controls in easy reach.

Step by step

1. Click an edge to draw, exclude or clear it.
2. Count the four edges around each cell.
3. Do not branch or form separate loops.
4. Check puzzle verifies every clue and loop 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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. A new-round button replaces the current round.

A useful example

A 0 cell has no loop edge around it; a 3 has exactly three. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Take a moment to compare.

Watch out for this

Several small loops are invalid even if clues match. Compare the situation with the worked example. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Common questions