How to play nonograms
A nonogram is a grid with numbers beside each row and above each column. Each number is a block of filled squares in that line, in the given order, with at least one empty square between blocks. A row clue of 3 1 means three filled squares in a row, a gap of one or more, then a single filled square. Use the clues together to work out which squares are filled; when every clue is satisfied, the hidden picture appears.
Tap or click a square to fill it, or press and drag to paint several at once. Switch the mode button to โ (or right-click on a computer) to mark squares you know are empty; marks are only notes and help you think. Clues turn faded when their line already matches. Check shows filled squares that are wrong, Hint fixes one square, and Undo steps back. Progress is saved in your browser, so you can come back later.
Every puzzle has one solution
Each picture here was tested with a line-by-line solver: it can be completed using only logic, one row or column at a time, and the clues lead to exactly one picture. You never need to guess.
Solving strategy
- Start with big numbers. In a 10-wide row, a clue of 8 must cover the middle six squares no matter where it starts. This overlap trick is the key technique.
- Add the clues. If the clues plus the gaps between them equal the row length, the whole row is decided.
- Zeros and completed lines. When a line's clue is satisfied, mark every remaining square with โ.
- Work edges. A filled square touching the border tells you the first block starts there, so you can extend it.
- Switch direction often. Each new square in a row gives fresh information to its column.
Names and history
Nonograms were created in Japan in the late 1980s, where they are often called "illustration logic" puzzles. The name nonogram comes from Non Ishida, one of the designers credited with the idea. They are also known as picross, griddlers, hanjie and paint by numbers. Small grids take a minute; large ones can take an hour.
FAQ
Is this nonogram game free?
Yes. All puzzles are free in any modern browser with no sign-up or download.
What is the difference between nonogram and picross?
They are the same kind of puzzle. Picross is a brand name used for nonogram games; griddlers and hanjie are other names.
Do I ever need to guess?
No. Every puzzle here was checked to be solvable by logic alone and to have a single answer.
How do I mark a square as empty?
Switch the mode button to โ, or right-click on a computer. Marks are optional notes.
Does it work offline?
Yes. After the first visit your browser keeps a copy so the puzzles open without internet, and your progress stays saved.