How to play Hashi:
rules of the bridges puzzle
CloseYour goal is to connect all the islands with bridges. To solve the puzzle, you must satisfy each island’s number and join them all in a single network.
The rules
- Each number tells you how many bridges an island needs. A double bridge counts as two.
- Bridges run horizontally or vertically. You cannot connect islands diagonally.
- There can be one or two bridges between two islands. Never more than two.
- Bridges cannot cross or pass through other islands.
- All islands must be connected. Matching the numbers is not enough if separate groups remain.
How to build and remove bridges
With the default controls, click or tap the space between two islands: once to build a bridge, again to make it double, and a third time to remove it.
You can also drag from one island to another to connect them.
You can change the controls through your account menu.
Marks are your own solving aid
Tap an island to mark it, then repeat to remove the mark. Use marks to remember which islands you think are complete.
Marking an island does not check whether it is correct.
Check your solution
When you think you have finished, press Check solution. If there are errors, the affected islands will turn red and you can check what is wrong.
When you solve the puzzle, all islands will turn green and the timer will stop.
Where to start
Look for islands with few options:
- A 2 with only one visible neighbouring island needs a double bridge to that island.
- A 4 with two visible neighbours needs two bridges to each neighbour.
- A 3 with two visible neighbours needs at least one bridge to each neighbour.
Do not close off part of the puzzle while there are still islands outside it.
Already know the rules? Read our Hashi solving strategies with examples.
Still have questions? Read the Hashimania FAQ.
Learn by practising
The interactive tutorial teaches you to build and remove bridges, avoid crossings and use marks.