Sudoku Master, also known as “devilish sudoku,” is a high-level sudoku puzzle with numbers in a 9×9 square. It is only suitable for experienced sudoku players. Simple logic and basic knowledge of the rules of the puzzle will not help—players must be familiar with advanced Sudoku solving methods and be able to apply them in practice.
Solving Sudoku at the highest level of difficulty is a difficult task, but many experienced players believe that this level of difficulty is ideal for training the brain and developing mental abilities.
How to solve Sudoku Master levels: strategies for success in devilish sudoku
The principle of solving is the same as in classic sudoku. The goal is to fill the square with numbers from 1 to 9 so that in each row, each column, and each 3×3 block, the numbers do not repeat. But at the Sudoku Master level, there are initially far fewer numbers in the square than usual: only four or even fewer. This makes devilish sudoku very difficult to solve.
If you want to solve the puzzle, it’s best to start with the blocks that have the most numbers already in place. These blocks are easier to fill than those with fewer numbers.
Sudoku Master: methods for solving devilish sudoku
While simple types of sudoku can be solved intuitively (and this is perfectly normal), solving sudoku at the “Master” level requires knowledge of certain strategies. Here is the most popular method for solving sudoku at the devilish level of difficulty.
The “XY-wing” method
The “XY-wing” is an advanced method for eliminating candidate digits. Let’s look at an example. Suppose there are three interconnected cells and two candidate digits (notes) in each of them. The central cell is called the “stem.” The other two are called “branches.” Each of these cells can contain only one of three digits, designated as X, Y, and Z. Any three digits can be substituted for these letters.
The “stem” contains candidate digits XY. The “branches” contain candidate digits XZ and YZ. A cell that intersects with both “branches” (i.e., divides a column with one “branch” and a row with another) cannot contain the candidate digit Z, because the contents of the ‘stem’ imply that this digit is in the “branches.”
Why play Sudoku Master?
Playing Sudoku Master online is very useful. First, by solving sudoku, you train your logic, learn to make decisions, and test your memory. In addition, by regularly playing sudoku at a devilish level of difficulty, you can improve your concentration. Solve a couple of puzzles a day, and you will stop getting distracted when doing important things.
Moreover, Sudoku develops analytical skills and thinking. Practice as often as possible, and over time you will learn to analyze various real-life situations using mental models that usually help you solve puzzles.