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How do I play Nines?

Nines is competitive sudoku. Fill every row, column and 3 by 3 box with the digits 1 to 9 before your time runs out.

Applies toNinesUpdated September 15, 2026

The goal

Complete the 9 by 9 grid so that every row, every column and every 3 by 3 box has each digit from 1 to 9 exactly once. Some cells are filled in to start, and every puzzle has exactly one solution.

Playing

  • Tap a cell, then tap a digit.
  • Use notes to pencil in possible digits while you work. You can also switch on automatic pencil marks.
  • Mistakes are not pointed out, and there are no hints. You can change any digit you entered before time runs out.

Difficulty and time

DifficultyTime limit
Easy5 minutes
Medium10 minutes
Hard15 minutes

You are only placed in tournaments at the difficulty levels you have switched on. Every player in a tournament gets the same puzzle.

See How is Nines scored?

Still need help?

Email us from the address on your Deku account and we will get back to you.

Email support@deku.net