How to Identify Types of Sudoku Puzzles

Sudoku puzzles are grid-based number games that require logic and patience. Traditional puzzles allow you to place numbers 1 through 9 into columns, rows and boxes in order to solve them, but there are also many variations of the game. Before you get started, make sure you learn how to identify different types of sudoku puzzles.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Look for 9 by 9 grid puzzles with nine sectioned boxes of nine cells within the grid. Sudoku look similar to crossword puzzles, but you don't use any word clues to solve the puzzles.

2. See that numbers 1 through 9 fit into the puzzle in each row, column and box with no repetitions. Sudoku can also use letters, symbols, shapes or other numbers besides 1 through 9.

3. Check the difficulty level. Sudoku puzzles should have no more than 30 givens--numbers or symbols already built into the puzzle. The easiest level puzzles have 30; the fewer the givens the more difficult the game is to solve.

4. Identify non-traditional sudoku puzzles by using these standards but looking for a small twist. Puzzles may contain a larger grid, such as a 16 by 16, or smaller grid, such as 5 by 5, or even a circular game board. Some use colors instead of numbers or symbols. These other types are often found in sudoku puzzle books as a challenging or fun variation to traditional types.

5. Look for variations called nonomino sudoku, kakuro, killer sudoku, hypersudoku, sudokube or o'ekaki. These games have similar grid formations with unique rules and strategies.