How to Play Nonogram
To play a Nonogram, read the numbers beside each row and above each column as blocks of filled cells, in order, with at least one empty between blocks. Fill cells you know are black, mark empties with X, and stop when every clue matches and a picture appears �no guessing on a well-made board.
The rules in 4 steps
- Each number is the length of one consecutive filled block.
- Blocks appear left-to-right (rows) or top-to-bottom (columns) in the order listed.
- Leave at least one empty cell between two blocks on the same line.
- Cross-check rows with columns until only one picture fits all clues.
What the numbers mean
A clue of 3 1 on a row means: a block of three filled cells, then a gap of one or more empties, then a single filled cell. Nothing else may be filled on that row. A clue of 0 means the whole line stays empty. A clue equal to the line length (for example 5 on a 5×5) fills the entire line at once.
How to play on desktop
- Fill mode + click/drag to paint black cells.
- Mark X mode (or right-click where supported) for empties you have proven.
- Undo / Redo, Auto (marks empties when a line is complete), and optional Hint (unranked).
- Arrow keys move the focus; useful on large boards.
How to play on mobile
- Tap to fill in Fill mode.
- Long-press a cell to Mark X without switching tools (NonogramGo default).
- Or tap Mark X in the toolbar, then tap cells to mark empties.
- Use zoom �/ + if clues feel tight on big grids.
Your first puzzle: Easy 5×5
Open Easy Nonogram (or the home Play board). Start with any line whose clue equals 5 �paint the whole line. Mark obvious empties with X, then look at crossing columns. When the board flashes complete, you have finished your first picture.
FAQ
Is Nonogram the same as Picross?
Same puzzle type; Picross is a Nintendo brand name. We use Nonogram as the generic term �see Nonogram vs Picross.
Do I need to guess?
Not on NonogramGo: puzzles are generated for a unique logical solution. If you feel stuck, use Mark X carefully or open solving techniques.
Where do I learn advanced tricks?
After the rules click, read How to solve and Strategies.