How to Play Sudoku

Welcome to Sudoku at FunFunGames.com! If you’ve never played before (or just want a quick refresher), you’re in the right place.

Want to learn advanced tips and all the game’s features? See General Sudoku Help.

The Goal

Fill every row, column, and bold 3×3 box with the numbers 1 to 9. The catch: each number can only appear once per row, column, and box!

5
3
7
6
1
9
5
9
8
6
8
6
3
4
8
3
1
7
2
6
6
2
8
4
1
9
5
8
7
9
Every puzzle starts with a few numbers filled in.

No Repeats

Each row, column, and box must contain all nine numbers with no repeats. Here’s a board with a row almost finished—what number is missing?

5
3
7
1
6
1
9
5
9
8
6
8
6
3
4
8
3
1
7
2
6
6
2
8
4
1
9
5
8
7
9
Tip: Scan across each row and column to spot missing numbers.

Think Inside the Box

Each bold-outlined 3×3 box must also have all numbers from 1 to 9. Sometimes the trickiest numbers to find are hiding inside these boxes!

5
3
4
7
6
2
1
9
5
9
8
6
8
6
3
4
8
3
1
7
2
6
6
2
8
4
1
9
5
8
7
9
Boxes are like “mini-grids” inside the puzzle—use them to your advantage.

Almost Done!

Sometimes you’ll get stuck—don’t worry, it happens to everyone. Look for spots where only one number fits, or use pencil marks (notes) for possibilities.

5
3
4
6
7
8
9
1
2
6
7
2
1
9
5
3
4
8
1
9
8
3
4
2
5
6
7
8
5
9
7
6
1
4
2
3
4
2
6
8
5
3
7
9
1
7
1
3
9
2
4
8
5
6
9
6
1
5
3
7
2
8
4
2
8
7
4
1
9
6
3
5
3
4
5
2
8
6
1
7
Can you figure out what number finishes this board?

Quick Tips for New Players

  • Start with rows, columns, or boxes that are almost filled in.
  • Use logic and process of elimination—guessing is less fun!
  • Don’t be afraid to erase or try again. Mistakes are part of the puzzle!
  • Try using pencil mode in our game to jot down possible numbers.

That’s it! You’re ready to try a puzzle or check out our most popular boards.

Want to learn advanced tips and all the game’s features? See General Sudoku Help.

Want to get fancy? We’ll have an advanced strategy page coming soon!