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Masyu

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description Masyu Overview

Masyu is a type of Japanese logic puzzle published by the puzzle company Nikoli, designed for solvers who enjoy spatial reasoning without relying on numbers or letters. Played on a rectangular grid, the objective is to draw a single continuous, non-intersecting loop that passes through specific cells. The loop's path is governed by strict rules involving white circles, which mandate straight lines, and black circles, which require a 90-degree turn.

help Masyu FAQ

What is the goal of a Masyu puzzle?

The goal is to draw one continuous loop on a rectangular grid. The loop must not cross itself, and every marked circle must be followed according to its color and placement rules.

What do the circles mean in Masyu?

A black circle requires the loop to turn at that cell, with the loop continuing straight through the neighboring cells on both sides. A white circle requires the loop to pass straight through the circle and turn in at least one adjacent cell.

Does Masyu use numbers or letters?

No. Masyu is a visual Japanese logic puzzle that uses black and white circles instead of arithmetic clues or alphabetic labels. Its deductions come from the loop rules and the geometry of the grid.

Who publishes Masyu puzzles?

Masyu is associated with Nikoli, the Japanese puzzle company known for logic puzzles such as Sudoku, Kakuro, and Slitherlink. It is often called a pearl puzzle because the clues resemble pearls.

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