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A Masyu is basically a visual logic puzzle.
Using logic, the solver deduces how the path must look at each pearl, and how these segments can be connected to form a single continuous loop.
Here are some tips:
- Draw the path in segments, from the center of one square to the center of the next.
In effect, a white pearl requires that you draw two segments leaving the cell in opposite directions,
and that at least one of these segments will end in a turn.
For a black pearl, draw one leg two segments longs in one direction, and another leg of two segments
leaving the pearl at a 90-degree angle.
- Start solving at the edges. A black pearl along an edge will have need to have one of its legs head away from the edge.
A white pearl along an edge must have its axis run parallel to the edge.
- Try to resolve the orientation of the axis of each white pearl, based on the nearby edges and paths.
If you have three white pearls in a row, the path through the center one is forced
(by the need to turn immediately before or after the white pearl.)
Generally, some trial and error is required.
Experienced solvers learn to recognize certain patterns that
allow some segments to be drawn or eliminated in a single step.
Masyu is easily printed in black and white and played
with a pen or pencil, and is popular with commuters.
Our puzzles are carefully graded by difficulty: Easy, Moderate, Hard and Challenging.
All puzzles are rigorously tested to ensure that they have exactly one solution.
We provide puzzles and solutions in print-ready format (EPS, or Encapsulated Post-Script)
as well as machine-readable format (XML), and can provide custom content and format as required.
Please feel free to download our samples
or contact us with your requirements.
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