Nonogram: how to play, rules & tips
Play nonogram puzzles free online. These picture puzzles, also called Picross or griddlers, use number clues to tell you which squares to fill until a hidden picture appears.
How to play a nonogram
Each row and column has a list of numbers. Each number is a run of filled squares in that line, in order, with at least one empty square between runs. A clue of 3 1 means a run of three, a gap, then a single square.
Tap a square to fill it. Switch to Mark mode to cross out squares you know are empty. Marks are just your notes and never count as filled.
The picture is done when every row and column clue is satisfied. There is no timer and no lives, and you can clear a wrong square at any time.
Nonogram sizes and pictures
There are 8 hand-made pictures that grow as you go: three 5x5 grids, three 8x8 grids and two 10x10 grids. Solve one and tap Next picture to move on.
Every clue set comes from a real picture, so every puzzle can be solved with logic. Any filling that meets all the clues counts as a win. There is no hint button in this game, so use the tips below when you get stuck. Clear wipes the grid if you want to start over.
Nonogram tips
- Start with the biggest clues. In a 10-square row, a run of 7 must cover the middle four squares wherever it slides.
- Add up a row's clues plus one gap between each. If that equals the row length, the whole row is decided.
- Mark empty squares as soon as you know them. A finished row's leftover squares are all empty.
- Work from the edges. A filled square on the edge starts a run, so you can fill the rest of that run inward.
- Switch between rows and columns often. Each new square you place gives the crossing line more to work with.
Frequently asked questions
Are these nonograms free?
Yes. HypeGameRoom is free: no sign-up, no download and nothing to buy to play. Arcade games reward Neons, a play-only currency that can never be cashed out.
What is the difference between a nonogram and Picross?
They are the same kind of puzzle. Nonogram is the general name, and Picross and griddlers are other names people use for it.
Is there a hint?
No. This game has no hint button, but there is no timer and no penalty, so you can clear and retry squares as often as you like.
How do I win?
Fill squares until every row and column matches its clue. The picture is then complete.