About Slitherlink
Slitherlink is played on a grid of dots, where you draw lines along the edges between dots to form a single continuous loop. Some cells contain a number from 0 to 4, showing exactly how many of that cell's four edges the loop must use. The loop can never branch or cross itself — when every number is satisfied, the loop is complete and unique.
The Rules
Draw a single unbroken loop along the grid lines so every numbered cell is touched by exactly that many loop edges.
Step by Step
- The board is a grid of dots; you draw segments along the lines between adjacent dots.
- Numbered cells show exactly how many of their four surrounding edges must be part of the loop.
- Unnumbered cells have no restriction — the loop can use any number of their edges.
- The finished lines must form exactly one closed loop, with no branches, no crossings, and no separate loops.
- The puzzle is solved when every number is satisfied and the loop closes into a single continuous shape.
Tips & Strategy
- A '0' cell means none of its four edges are used — mark all four as definitely not part of the loop right away.
- A '3' cell means all but one edge is used; a '1' cell means only one edge is used — both are strong starting points.
- Two diagonally touching cells with '3' clues often force a specific corner configuration — look for these patterns early.
- Every dot on the finished loop touches exactly zero or two loop edges — never one, and never three or four — use that to rule out dead-end lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the loop cross over itself?
No — the finished lines form exactly one simple closed loop, with no crossings, branches, or separate smaller loops.
Do all cells have a number?
No — many cells are left blank, meaning the loop can pass through any number of their edges without restriction.
Is Slitherlink the same everywhere?
The core rules are consistent worldwide; it's also published under names like Fences or Loop the Loop.
