Divide the grid into rectangles. Each rectangle holds exactly one clue that tells you its size and shape.
Rules
- Split the whole grid into rectangles. No overlaps, no gaps.
- Every rectangle must contain exactly one clue cell.
- A clue's number is the rectangle's area (number of cells). A ? means the area is hidden — you work it out.
- The clue's badge gives the shape: ■ square, ▬ wide (wider than tall), ▮ tall (taller than wide), ✚ any shape.
- Drag from one corner to the opposite corner to draw a rectangle. Tap a rectangle to remove it.
Strategy tips
- Prime areas (2, 3, 5, 7) can only be 1×n strips — those are the easiest to place.
- Corners and edges limit how a rectangle can extend. Start there.
- A "wide" badge with area 4 must be 1×4; a "square" badge with area 4 must be 2×2. Badges cut the options in half.
- Every cell must end up covered. If a cell can only be reached by one clue, that clue's rectangle must include it.
FAQ
Is Patches the same as Shikaku?
Patches is Shikaku with two twists: shape badges (square / wide / tall) and some clues with hidden areas. The base rule — one clue per rectangle, area equals the number — is identical.
Is this the LinkedIn Patches game?
No. It is an independent puzzle with the same rules. LinkedIn publishes one Patches a day; here you get a daily puzzle plus unlimited practice. We are not affiliated with LinkedIn.
Does every puzzle have one solution?
Yes. Every puzzle is checked by a solver before it is shown.