Shikaku Puzzle places you in front of a grid filled with a few numbers, and the whole game consists of cutting it into rectangles or squares whose area matches exactly the indicated value. From the first moments, you observe the available space, you spot narrow zones, then you begin to trace possible shapes mentally before placing them. A 4 can become a compact square or an elongated rectangle, while a 6 opens several divisions that compete for the same space. Very quickly the grid tightens, some cells seem to suit multiple zones, and you advance by checking that no division leaves a number trapped without a solution. The satisfaction comes from this clear, almost physical progression when a correct arrangement frees an entire sector and allows you to see further. As the game progresses, you must above all avoid overlaps and leftover spaces impossible to fill, because the slightest area error can block the whole construction. Each rectangle must contain a single number, never more, never less, which forces you to arbitrate between several credible possibilities before choosing the most coherent one. Some grids are solved by starting with the large values, others on the contrary require securing first the small zones stuck on an edge or in a corner. You thus move from one obvious deduction to another, then to a real moment of hesitation where you must reread the whole grid carefully. This alternation between obviousness, doubt and resolution gives the puzzle a very gripping rhythm, accessible in its rules, but truly stimulating when configurations become tighter. Your turn to play! Enjoy!
Log in to comment this game
See all comments