Sudoku is one of the best-known logic puzzles in the world. The classic version (9x9) can take half an hour and feel like work. Mini Sudoku is the gentler, 4x4 cousin. Big squares. Clear numbers. Logical thinking without the exhaustion.
Where to find it
Go to Activities → Brain Games, and tap Mini Sudoku.
The rules, simply
A 4x4 grid, divided into four 2x2 boxes.
Fill in the empty squares so that:
Each row has the numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4, without repeating.
Each column has the numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4, without repeating.
Each 2x2 box has the numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4, without repeating.
Some numbers are already filled in. Your job is to figure out the rest.
How to play
Tap Play. A puzzle appears.
Tap an empty square.
Tap the number you want to put there (1, 2, 3, or 4).
If you change your mind, tap the square again and pick a different number, or tap the eraser.
When the whole grid is filled in correctly, the puzzle is solved.
How to start a puzzle
Look for the easiest clues first.
Find a row, column, or box with three numbers already filled in. The fourth one has to be whatever is missing. Fill it in.
Then check the new row, column, or box that number just entered. Sometimes it sets up another easy answer.
When the easy ones run out, look at one specific number. "Where can the 3 go in this row?" Often there is only one place it can fit.
What it trains
Logical thinking. Step-by-step reasoning, holding possibilities in mind.
Spotting patterns. Noticing which numbers are already placed and where the gaps are.
Problem solving. Working backward from a goal to find the missing pieces.
How long a puzzle takes
Five to ten minutes. Some go faster. Some take a little longer. There is no clock pressuring you to hurry.
If you get stuck
Every puzzle is solvable. If you are stuck, the answer is usually hiding in a row or column you have not looked at recently. Take a breath, scan the whole grid again, and the next move usually appears.
If you still cannot see it, tap Hint. The game will highlight a square you can solve next.
Mini Sudoku unlocks Steady Hands Garden
One play of Mini Sudoku is one of the three requirements to unlock Steady Hands Garden. The others are Pattern Flow and Match & Go.
Every finished puzzle contributes to your ThriveScore.