How to Play Slitherlink

THE PLAYBOOK · CQXSJINPENG

How to play Slitherlink

Slitherlink gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Draw one closed loop whose edges match the count around every numbered cell. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Use the example below to understand a decision.

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

Try a deliberate move

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Refer to the controls when needed.

Your goal

Draw one closed loop whose edges match the count around every numbered cell. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Review the board or playing area as it changes.

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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

A useful example

A 0 cell has no loop edge around it; a 3 has exactly three. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Check the stated objective.

Watch out for this

Several small loops are invalid even if clues match. Compare the situation with the worked example. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.

Common questions