It's only logical
(Published yesterday, 02:53 by HalfBakedLunatic)
I specifically designed this puzzle to start with a few combinations of elements that should be recognizable, which will allow you to eliminate some candidates. Then I've added 2nd-tier logic that even seasoned solvers will need to work through ... but that first digit will still be elusive.
Stay with it, work through the third-level logic, and you'll get there!
The (Variant) Rules:
• Normal Sudoku Rules apply
• Digits in cells separated by a white dot must be consecutive, digits separated by a black dot must be in a 2:1 ratio - not all dots are shown
• Digits in cells separated by an X must sum to 10, digits separated by a V must sum to 5 - not all X's and V's are shown
• Digits in cages must sum to the value in the corner of the cage
Solve Online here (right-click and open in new tab):
It's only logical (Sudokupad)
Leave a comment and let me know how you like it!
Puzzle by David Workman (aka "HalfBakedLunatic")
Solution code: Column 5 top to bottom
Comments
yesterday, 18:04 by VitP
hints:
1) study the 2 main columns. WHY ? because you already have 3 definite "lows", plus one virtual, and most cells can be reduced to just 2 candidates.
2) study the main row. WHY ? because it's the only other place where you have any information.
2a) 3-cell 21 cages have only 3 possible fills. thus, much candidate reduction is available.
the next step separates the experts from the noobish from the noobs. noobs give up here, experts do it in their head, and noobish BIFURCATE the 20 step chain, without a hint of regret.
result: r7c7 is forced, and completes the break-in.
the rest is gas.
NOTE specifically that extensive goodliffing is NOT done, and also, NO attempt to do any significant amount of colouring. none of that helps the break-in, and is guaranteed to be a lot of wasted effort. the goal is to place ONLY digits and candidate PAIRS.
yesterday, 18:01 by GeorgeTheToad2
Not too difficult, about 2* with lots of high low colouring.
yesterday, 14:41 by PinkNickels
Fun challenge. A little coloring makes it quite approachable. Nice puzzle.
yesterday, 13:26 by Criptonight
Zoals Dover zou zeggen, Geweldige Saus!
yesterday, 12:27 by BobAndWeave
I was stuck for almost a half hour, but then that third level logic suddenly became clear. It's a great feeling see the path forward. Wonderful puzzle.
yesterday, 10:42 by Mozart40
In contrast to the other voices I didn't find it that easy. But maybe I missed something. Nevertheless a nice puzzle
yesterday, 08:07 by Killer-Ly
I would rate it 1,5*. A lovely little snack, but at the end far too easy, no thinking required.
yesterday, 06:11 by bansalsaab
Very nice puzzle. But unless i made a mistake, this was quite eady.
