Number Chain - online puzzle game

overview

Number Chain is a path-finding logic puzzle. A grid contains some pre-placed numbers. Your goal is to fill in the remaining cells so that numbers 1 through N (where N equals the total number of cells) form a continuous chain. Every consecutive pair of numbers must occupy adjacent cells — horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.

rules

• The grid contains given numbers (locked) and empty cells to fill.
• Fill every empty cell with a number from 1 to N (N = rows × columns).
• Each number from 1 to N must appear exactly once.
• Consecutive numbers (k and k+1) must be in adjacent cells (8 directions).
• Every puzzle has exactly one unique solution.

controls

• Click/tap an empty cell to select it (blue highlight).
• Use the on-screen number pad or keyboard to enter a number.
• Press 0, Backspace, or Delete to erase a placed number.
• Use arrow keys to navigate between empty cells.
• Use Check to validate your solution.
• Use Hint to reveal one correct number.

scoring

Solve faster with fewer moves and hints for a better result. Each hint used is tracked. The timer measures your solve speed. Try to complete puzzles without Check or Hint for the best experience. Larger grids and harder difficulties earn more bragging rights!

tips

• Start by looking at given numbers that are close together — the path between them is often forced.
• Numbers 1 and N (the max) are always given. Work outward from these endpoints.
• Corner cells have only 3 neighbors, edge cells have 5 — use this to eliminate possibilities.
• If two consecutive given numbers are far apart, count the gap and trace possible routes.
• Look for bottlenecks where the path must pass through a specific cell.

faq