Mini Sudoku #191 · Feb 18, 2026

00:00

Download Mini Sudoku

Mini Sudoku - Free 6x6 Puzzle Game

Mini Sudoku is a 6x6 version of the classic number puzzle: fill every row, column, and 2x3 box with the digits 1 through 6 exactly once — the same three-rule logic as Classic Sudoku, just scaled down from 81 cells to 36. Today's puzzle changes automatically at midnight, so every visitor solves the same board once a day; three difficulty levels set the starting clue count at 17 (Easy), 13 (Medium), or 9 (Hard) out of 36 cells. Most Easy puzzles finish in under two minutes, which makes Mini Sudoku a popular pick for a coffee-break brain workout rather than a long sit-down session — no account, download, or payment required.

How to Play Mini Sudoku

The rules are simple: fill every row, column, and 2x3 box with the numbers 1 through 6, without repeating any number. Start with the pre-filled cells as your clues, use logic to deduce the remaining numbers, and experience the satisfaction of completing each puzzle.

Whether you're new to Sudoku or a seasoned puzzle enthusiast looking for a quick game, Mini Sudoku offers the perfect balance of challenge and accessibility. With three difficulty levels—Easy, Medium, and Hard—you can gradually increase the challenge as your skills improve.

Basics

1

Fill the Grid

Your goal is to fill every empty cell in the 6x6 grid with numbers from 1 to 6.

1

3

5

5

1

3

2

5

6

3

2

5

6

3

2
2

Follow the Rules

Each row, column, and 2x3 box must contain the numbers 1-6 exactly once. No repeats allowed!

Each Row

5

3

1

6

2

4

Each Column

5

1

4

6

3

2

Each 2x3 Box

5

3

1

2

6

4
3

Use Notes

Tap the pencil icon to enable notes mode. This lets you mark possible numbers in each cell to help you solve the puzzle.

Notes Mode

1 3 5

→

Solved

3
4

Complete the Puzzle

Fill in all the cells correctly to complete the puzzle. Try to beat your best time!

1

2

3

4

5

6

4

5

6

1

2

3

2

3

1

5

6

4

5

6

4

2

3

1

3

1

2

6

4

5

6

4

5

3

1

2

Tips & Strategies

Start with the Obvious

Look for rows, columns, or boxes that already have 4-5 numbers filled in. These are the easiest to complete since you only need to figure out 1-2 missing numbers.

Use Scanning

Pick a number (like 1) and scan each row, column, and box to see where it can go. This systematic approach helps you find placements you might otherwise miss.

Elimination Method

For tricky cells, write down all possible numbers using notes mode. Then eliminate options by checking what numbers already exist in the same row, column, and box.

Look for Single Candidates

Sometimes a cell can only contain one possible number. When you find these "naked singles," fill them in immediately—they often unlock other cells.

Controls

Mouse / Trackpad

Click on any empty cell to select it, then click a number (1-6) to fill it in. Click the pencil icon to toggle notes mode, and use Clear to remove a number.

Touch Screen

Tap any empty cell to select it, then tap a number to place it. Tap the pencil icon to enable notes mode for marking possible candidates in each cell.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sudoku?

Sudoku's grid logic traces back to 18th-century Swiss mathematician Leonhard Euler's "Latin squares." The modern 9x9 puzzle itself was invented in the United States in 1979 by Howard Garns, then imported, renamed, and popularized by the Japanese publisher Nikoli starting in 1984 — the name "Sudoku" is a contraction of the Japanese phrase "Sūji wa dokushin ni kagiru," meaning "the digits must remain single." The classic puzzle uses a 9x9 grid divided into nine 3x3 boxes, where players must fill each row, column, and box with the numbers 1-9 without repeating any digit. Today, Sudoku is one of the world's most popular puzzle games, enjoyed by millions of people of all ages.

Why is Mini Sudoku great for beginners?

Mini Sudoku uses a smaller 6x6 grid with numbers 1-6, making it the perfect introduction to Sudoku logic. With fewer cells to fill (36 instead of 81) and smaller boxes (2x3 instead of 3x3), puzzles can be completed in just a few minutes. This bite-sized format lets new players learn the core rules and develop solving strategies without feeling overwhelmed. It's also ideal for quick brain training sessions during breaks, commutes, or whenever you have a few spare minutes.

What are the benefits of playing Sudoku?

Playing Sudoku regularly offers numerous cognitive and mental health benefits:

Improves logical thinking and problem-solving skills
Enhances concentration and focus
Boosts memory and cognitive function
Reduces stress and promotes relaxation
Provides a sense of accomplishment
Helps maintain mental sharpness as you age

What do the difficulty levels mean?

Our three difficulty levels are determined by the number of pre-filled cells (clues) given at the start:

🌱

Easy

17 clues given

Great for learning the basics

🌿

Medium

13 clues given

A balanced challenge

🌳

Hard

9 clues given

For experienced players

Why play on minisudoku.org?

We've designed minisudoku.org to provide the best Mini Sudoku experience:

Free, Ad-Supported

No subscriptions, no hidden fees, no paywall

No Account Required

Start playing instantly, no sign-up needed

Works Everywhere

Desktop, tablet, or mobile—any browser

Track Your Progress

Best times saved locally for each difficulty

Dark Mode

Easy on your eyes, day or night

Mobile Apps Available

Download for iOS and Android

Copied to clipboard!