🧩 How to play 6x6 Sudoku
By Miguel Arechaga
6x6 sudoku is the perfect stepping stone between the simple 4x4 and the classic 9x9. It offers more of a challenge than the kids' version while staying accessible and quick to solve. Its distinctive feature is its rectangular 2x3 boxes. Here are the rules and how to solve it.
What is 6x6 sudoku?
It's a sudoku variant played on a 6x6 grid, divided into six rectangular 2x3 boxes (2 rows by 3 columns). The numbers 1 to 6 are used.
Rules and how to play step by step
- Fill the grid with the numbers 1 to 6.
- Each row must contain all six numbers without repeats.
- Each column must contain all six numbers without repeats.
- Each 2x3 box must contain the numbers 1 to 6, one of each.
- Tap an empty square and choose the correct number.
Tips to solve 6x6 sudoku
- Pay attention to the rectangular boxes: being 2x3, they share information with two rows and three columns at once.
- Start with the numbers that already appear several times on the board.
- Use notes mode mentally: jot down the possible candidates for each uncertain square.
- Work by elimination: if a number can only go in one square of a box, place it.
Differences from the 4x4 and the 9x9
Compared to 4x4 sudoku, the 6x6 adds difficulty with its rectangular boxes and six numbers. Compared to the classic 9x9, it's still faster and less overwhelming, ideal for practicing sudoku techniques before jumping to the big board.
