Number Sums game info
Objective
The objective in Number Sums is to select the correct combination of numbers so that the total in each row and each column matches its given hint.
Grid
Number Sums is played on a rectangular grid. Available sizes vary by difficulty:
- Easy: 5×4 or 5×6
- Medium: 5×5 or 5×7
- Hard: 6×6 or 7×7
Each row has a hint to its left, and each column has a hint at the top. These indicate the target sum for the selected numbers in that row or column.
Rules
Select numbers in the grid so that:
- The sum of the selected numbers in each row matches the hint on its left.
- The sum of the selected numbers in each column matches the hint at the top.
Controls
Clicking a number selects it. Right-click a number to erase it, or click a selected number to erase it. Clicking an erased number makes it appear again.
When a row or column’s sum matches its hint, the hint turns green. Note that a green hint doesn’t mean that the correct numbers were selected. Other combinations might also satisfy the hint.
Tips and Tricks
- Erase based on low hints: In rows or columns with very low hints (like 0, 1, or 2) it is often possible to remove numbers, especially those that are higher than the hint.
- Select based on high hints: In row or columns with a high hint compared to the number available, many cells may need to be selected. These high hints can help to identify must-select numbers by considering whether omitting them would make it impossible to reach the target sum.
- Check intersections: The numbers at the intersection of a nearly-complete row and column can have restricted values. Using both row and columns hints, sometimes you can decide whether the intersection is a must-select number or a number that has to be erased.
Similar games
Number Sums has similarities with Sumplete. If you enjoy this game, you may also like Kakuro, Futoshiki, and other logic puzzles that mix deduction with arithmetic reasoning.
System requirements
Number Sums can be played in all modern browsers, on all device types (desktop, tablet, mobile), and on all operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, ...).