How to Play Nonogram
Nonograms — also called Picross, Griddlers, or Paint by Numbers — are logic puzzles where you reveal a hidden picture by filling in cells on a grid. The numbers along each row and column tell you how many consecutive filled cells appear in that line and in what order. By cross-referencing the row and column clues, you can deduce exactly which cells should be filled and which should remain empty. The result is a pixel-art image that emerges from pure logic.
How to Play
Each row and column has a set of numbers as clues. Each number represents a consecutive group of filled cells in that line. For example, a clue of "3 1" means there is a group of 3 filled cells, at least one empty cell, then a group of 1 filled cell. Left-click a cell to fill it (turns blue). Right-click or long-press to mark it with an X (indicating you know it should be empty). The puzzle is solved when every filled cell matches the hidden picture.
Three sizes are available: 5×5 for beginners, 10×10 for intermediate players, and 15×15 for a serious challenge. Each size has multiple built-in puzzles that generate different pictures.
History & Origin
Nonograms were independently invented by two people in 1987. Japanese graphics editor Non Ishida won a competition with a puzzle she created by turning on and off lights in a skyscraper to form an image, while Japanese puzzle enthusiast Tetsuya Nishio invented the same concept around the same time. The puzzles were first published in Japan under the name "Window Art Puzzles" and quickly spread worldwide. Nintendo popularized the format with their Picross game series starting in 1995. To learn more, read our article on What Is a Nonogram?
Strategy & Tips
- Start with the largest clues. A clue of "7" on a 10-wide row means at least 7 cells must be filled — the overlap technique tells you which cells are guaranteed filled regardless of position.
- Use the overlap method. Slide the clue groups as far left as possible, then as far right. Any cells that are filled in both positions must be filled.
- Mark empty cells with X. Confirmed empty cells are just as valuable as confirmed filled cells. They narrow down possibilities for other clues.
- Check completed lines. When a line's clues are fully satisfied, mark all remaining empty cells with X.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do nonograms always have a unique solution?
Well-designed nonograms have exactly one solution that can be reached through logic alone, without guessing. All puzzles on MiniGamePlanet are guaranteed to have unique solutions.
Are nonograms good for your brain?
Yes. Nonograms exercise logical deduction, spatial reasoning, and pattern recognition. They are a popular brain-training activity recommended by cognitive scientists.
What is the difference between Nonogram and Picross?
They are the same puzzle. "Picross" is Nintendo's trademarked name for their version. "Nonogram" is the generic name used everywhere else. Griddlers, Hanjie, and Paint by Numbers are other common names for the same concept.
Play Nonogram free in your browser — no download needed. Pick a grid size, study the clues, and start revealing the hidden picture.