Expert Sukaku

The ultimate test. Expert Sukaku puzzles push the variant constraint to its limit, requiring flawless logic and the most advanced solving techniques. Only the sharpest minds complete these.

▶ Play Expert Sukaku All Sukaku Difficulties

What to expect at Expert level

Expert Sukaku puzzles are constructed to be as difficult as possible while remaining logically unique. Every cell placement flows from precise reasoning - Guessing never helps. The constraint creates complex cross-cell dependencies that demand full concentration.

Designed for solvers who have mastered Hard and are looking for the definitive Sukaku experience.

Difficulty overview

LevelCluesTechniques neededAvg. time
Easy ManyBasic elimination5–10 min
Medium ModerateSingles, pairs10–20 min
Hard FewAdvanced logic20–40 min
Expert MinimalFull mastery40+ min

About Sukaku

Difficulty
★★★☆☆
3/5
Constraint Type
Pencilmark Elimination
Typical Givens
All candidates shown
Avg. Solve (Expert)
62 min

Sukaku (数角) is a Sudoku variant where instead of given digits, each cell is given a set of possible candidates. The solver must eliminate candidates using standard Sudoku logic until each cell has exactly one remaining candidate. Some Sukaku puzzles provide very sparse candidate sets (near-complete givens), while others provide full or nearly-full candidate lists, requiring advanced techniques to solve.

Solving Techniques for Expert Level

Technique Description Level
Candidate Scanning Start by scanning rows, columns, and boxes — any candidate appearing in only one cell in a group must be placed there. Beginner
Cross-Hatch Elimination When a digit is placed (or reduced to one candidate), eliminate it from all cells in the same row, column, and box. Beginner
Naked Singles A cell with only one remaining candidate is a naked single — the digit is forced. In Sukaku, this happens automatically when you eliminate down to one candidate. Intermediate
Hidden Singles A candidate that appears exactly once in a row, column, or box must be placed in that cell regardless of how many other candidates that cell shows. Intermediate
Pair Elimination Two cells in a group that share only the same two candidates form a naked pair — both candidates can be eliminated from all other cells in that group. Advanced

Average Solve Time by Difficulty

Easy
8 min
Medium
18 min
Hard
35 min
Expert
62 min

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I place a digit in Sukaku?
You eliminate wrong candidates by pressing the number buttons. When only one candidate remains, the digit is placed automatically.
Can I accidentally eliminate the correct digit?
Yes — if you eliminate the solution digit, it counts as a mistake. The candidate is still removed from the cell.