Pencilmarking the Box 4 clues should lead to a flurry of early digits, although the resolution of R4 will require far trickier consideration.
Next Step Hint
Several Dutch Flat Mates observations must come together at once for progress (more than just those listed here).
9 in Box 7 should be one of your early digits.
9 in Box 4 is also gettable very early to avoid a forced unhappy 5.
Then, wherever 9 is placed in C2, it has powerful consequences for Flat Mates.
You're on your own from here to actually place a digit, but 1s, 5s and 9s are the key to progress!
Please note that the R7C9 arrow isn't useful until the very end of the solve.
Solution code: Column 9 Digits
on 11. September 2026, 18:28 by baku
What a treat! Thanks for sharing. For me was more like 4 stars until I read your tips, then it became obvious. Great setting!
on 10. September 2026, 07:13 by Piatato
Impressive minimalism, thanks!
on 9. September 2026, 21:21 by damo_89
Tricky dubz
on 9. September 2026, 19:36 by brskri
Fully 3.5* for me (not looking at shaded hints) due to tougher mid-solve steps. It all comes together though, which is quite satisfying! My eyes missed a couple of obvious deductions that cost time, but great puzzle.
on 9. September 2026, 18:36 by Franjo
Thank you very much for creating and sharing another wonderful DFM-puzzle.
on 9. September 2026, 18:20 by wuc
Cool addition thx.
on 9. September 2026, 14:40 by ViKingPrime
This series has been such a staple over the years... its going to be a sad day when the curtain closes. Until then, we must cherish every single Dutch Flat Mate we can.
on 9. September 2026, 11:11 by marcmees
very nice construction with very few clues. Thanks.
on 9. September 2026, 11:11 by Saltensity
The first few deductions after the initial ones are the most challenging for me, before the solve became smooth. Nice puzzle and awaiting the next (entropic?!) DFM puzzle :)
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