Types of Sudoku Explained — Classic, Killer, Jigsaw & More

A complete guide to every type of Sudoku: classic, Killer, Jigsaw, Mini, Mathdoku, and Colour Sudoku. Learn the rules, differences, and how to play each variant.

Types of Sudoku - All Variants Explained

TypeGrid sizeKey ruleDifficultyBest for
Classic Sudoku9x9Digits 1 to 9 once per row, column, and 3x3 boxBeginner to advancedCore technique building
Killer Sudoku9x9Cage totals must match; digits cannot repeat in a cageIntermediate to advancedConstraint-heavy deduction
Jigsaw Sudoku9x9Irregular regions replace standard 3x3 boxesIntermediate to advancedPattern adaptation
Mini Sudoku6x6Digits 1 to 6 once per row, column, and 2x3 boxBeginner to intermediateQuick daily sessions
MathdokuVariesRow and column uniqueness plus arithmetic cage targetsIntermediateMental math and logic
Colour Sudoku9x9Classic Sudoku logic using colours instead of digitsBeginner to intermediateVisual solving rhythm

Classic Sudoku

Classic Sudoku is the best baseline for learning elimination and consistency. Solve each row, column, and box with no repeats. It scales naturally from beginner grids to competitive daily runs.

Play now: Daily Classic Sudoku and Classic Casual.

Killer Sudoku

Killer Sudoku overlays cage sums on standard Sudoku rules, creating multi-constraint moves. Progress comes from cage combinations and row-column intersections. It rewards careful notes and sequencing.

Play now: Daily Killer Sudoku and Killer Casual.

Jigsaw Sudoku

Jigsaw Sudoku keeps row and column rules but swaps square boxes for irregular regions. The region geometry changes familiar scan patterns. It is ideal for players who want fresh structure without new digit rules.

Play now: Daily Jigsaw Sudoku and Jigsaw Casual.

Mini Sudoku

Mini Sudoku compresses the puzzle into a fast 6x6 format. It keeps core logic while reducing solve time. It is useful for daily consistency and short focus sessions.

Play now: Daily Mini Sudoku and Mini Casual.

Mathdoku

Mathdoku combines row-column uniqueness with arithmetic cage constraints. You solve with elimination plus number combinations. It is a strong variant for arithmetic-first logic players.

Play now: Daily Mathdoku and Mathdoku Casual.

Colour Sudoku

Colour Sudoku uses standard Sudoku rules with colours in place of digits. It preserves logic while shifting the puzzle into a visual pattern experience. Many players find it an accessible speed-practice variant.

Play now: Daily Colour Sudoku and Colour Casual.