No Squares Tapa

No Squares Tapa Puzzle Rules:

• Basic Tapa rules apply:

  • Empty cells can be filled to form a connected black region.

  • No 2x2 area can be entirely filled with black cells.

  • Clue cells with numbers cannot be filled in and represent the length of each consecutive black cell block in the eight surrounding cells.

  • If a clue cell has multiple digits, the groups of black cells must be separated by at least one white cell.

  • Question marks (?) can be used instead of clue numbers and represent any non-zero integer.

• Additional No Squares Tapa rule:

  • the amount of white cells (except clue cells) must be equal to the amount of black cells.

No Squares Tapa puzzle：

Solution:

No Squares Tapa Solving Tips:

• Use the numbers to determine the location of black cells: Based on the clue numbers, fill in the corresponding number of black cells in the surrounding squares. For example, a number 3 indicates that there must be 3 consecutive black cells nearby.

• Identify isolated white cells: Look along the edges of the black area. If there is only one white cell adjacent to the black area, that white cell must remain white.

• Utilize the "no 2x2 white area" rule: If the distribution of black cells around a certain 2x2 area would force all cells within that area to be white, then according to the rule, there must be a white cell within that area.

• Consider multiple number clues: If a clue cell contains multiple numbers, such as 2 and 3, the surrounding black cells need to be divided into two parts: one part is 2 consecutive black cells, and the other part is 3 consecutive black cells. They must also be separated by at least one white cell.

• Fill in the blanks gradually using deduction: Apply the above rules to deduce gradually. Based on the already filled black and white cells, determine the filling method for the surrounding squares. As more squares are filled, more information can be obtained for further deduction, eventually completing the puzzle.

No Squares Tapa Summary:

No Squares Tapa requires logical reasoning to fill in the blanks gradually. Observe the number clues, combine the "no 2x2 white area" rule and the separation of multiple numbers, and gradually determine the positions of black and white cells. As more squares are filled, more information can be obtained for reasoning, and eventually the puzzle can be completed.