You can fill in a Sudoku grid until the numbers blur, then reach a spot where you can't tell what to do next. Most programs either give you the answer or leave you guessing. SUDOKU FUN from KIDware is built to teach you the logic behind each move.
Quick facts
- Vendor: KIDware
- Version: 1.0
- Platforms: Windows (the vendor lists Windows 95, 98, Me, NT, 2000 and XP)
- Price: $9.95
- Product No.: 295
Key features
Generate puzzles at the difficulty you want
Let the program generate a puzzle of varying difficulty, or type in one from a newspaper or puzzle book and solve it on screen. Starting values can be symmetric or asymmetric.
Get a hint that explains itself
When you're stuck, SUDOKU FUN can fill in a number and tell you why that number was chosen. The vendor's own page also describes showing possible values and drawing 'pencil lines' to eliminate candidates. Using hints this way helps you build your own solving strategies.
Puzzles with exactly one solution
Every generated puzzle has only one solution, and the solver only accepts puzzles like that. You never need to guess. A good Sudoku can always be solved by logic.
Save, print and time your puzzles
You can save puzzles for later and print them to solve on paper. As you play, the program can time and evaluate your performance.
Who it's for
It suits beginners who want to learn how Sudoku logic works. It also suits experienced solvers who want fresh puzzles to print. The vendor also describes it as a good classroom logic exercise, so teachers and parents may find it useful.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Hints explain the reasoning, not just the answer.
- Every puzzle has a single solution, so no guessing.
- Save and print support.
- Low price for a one-time purchase.
Cons
- It's an older Windows program, with Windows 95 through XP listed as supported systems.
- It does only Sudoku, with no other puzzle types mentioned.
FAQs
What is the rules of Sudoku in this program?
The grid is 9 x 9 with nine 3 x 3 boxes. Every row, column and box must use the digits 1 through 9 once.
Can I enter puzzles from a newspaper?
Yes. You can enter a puzzle and solve it, or have the program generate one.
Will I ever have to guess?
No. Generated puzzles have one solution, so logic is enough.
Can I print puzzles?
Yes. Puzzles can be printed so you can solve them away from the computer.
System requirements
The listing names Windows 95, 98, Me, NT, 2000 and XP. The vendor's page says it works with Microsoft Windows operating systems.