What Is Hitori?
Easy Hitori is the best entry point for learning the puzzle because the 5x5 grid keeps every repeated number visible without heavy scanning.
The goal is still the full Hitori rule set: remove row and column duplicates by shading cells black, never let black cells touch orthogonally, and keep all unshaded cells connected.
Because the board is compact, Easy Hitori is good for practicing when to mark a cell white instead of guessing which duplicate should be black.
How to Play Hitori
Use Easy Hitori to build the basic habit: solve duplicate numbers first, then check the shape of the remaining white cells.
- 1Find rows or columns with one obvious repeated number.
- 2Shade one duplicate only when the other copy can safely remain white.
- 3Circle cells that cannot be black because they would touch another black cell.
- 4Watch corners and edges because they quickly affect white-cell connectivity.
- 5Finish when the visible numbers in every row and column are unique.
Easy Hitori Strategy
- •5x5 keeps the grid readable for first-time Hitori players.
- •Easy puzzles emphasize direct duplicate removal before deeper connectivity traps.
- •This mode is best when you want a short number-logic puzzle with gentle deduction.
Hitori FAQ
Is Easy Hitori good for beginners?
Yes. Easy Hitori uses a 5x5 grid, so repeated numbers and black-cell restrictions are easier to track.
What should I look for first in Easy Hitori?
Start with simple duplicate pairs in a row or column, then check whether either copy would create adjacent black cells.
What is different about 5x5 Hitori Easy?
5x5 Hitori Easy changes the grid size and the density of forced black cells, so the solve has a different balance of duplicate cleanup and connectivity logic.
Are all repeated numbers in Hitori black?
No. Repeated numbers tell you at least one copy may need to be shaded, but the adjacency and connectivity rules decide which copy is correct.
Can black cells touch diagonally?
Yes. Black cells cannot touch above, below, left, or right. Diagonal contact is allowed.
What does the white circle mark mean?
A white circle means you have confirmed the cell should remain visible. It is a note for your solve and counts as a final white decision.