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Catdoku

Rating:5 (1 votes)
Played:54 times
Developer:AzGames
Released:September 30, 2026
Classification:Casual Games

The rules of Catdoku, a logic puzzle, are simple: Each row, column, and shaded area must contain one cat and only one cat. The game is not like Sudoku, which involves numbers, but players see empty cells and regions and slowly eliminate invalid locations. The initial impression is fun, but as you play, you realize that each move is loaded with weight.

How to Play Catdoku

Cat Placement Rules

The Catdoku board revolves around three clear rules:

  • One cat per row.
  • One cat per column.
  • One cat per colored region.

A single misread cell can immediately throw off your solving rhythm. Therefore, the most important aspect isn't speed, but accurately reading the board state before interacting with the next cell.

The "Aloof" Rule

A feature that sets Catdoku apart from familiar puzzles is that cats cannot stand next to each other—not even diagonally. Once a cat is placed, the surrounding cells immediately become invalid. This rule creates the sensation that the board is constantly narrowing, while each correct placement opens up a new line of reasoning.

Controls

The game's controls are straightforward:

  • Tap a cell to mark it with an X.
  • Double-tap to place a cat.
  • Tap again to clear it.

The game doesn't require complex inputs. What matters most is maintaining a calm focus while examining the board and determining which cell is truly valid.

How is Catdoku different from Sudoku?

CriteriaCatdokuTraditional Sudoku
SymbolsCatsNumbers
Board ViewBy color zones and empty spacesBy numbers and blocks
Additional RuleNo touching (including diagonally)No such rule
Solving FeelVisual, easy to readPurely logical, symbol-focused
PacingGradual, step-by-stepFocused on numerical deduction

Tips for Beginners

Start with zones that have few empty spaces

  • Color zones with few remaining empty cells are usually where you'll find the earliest answers. Starting here gives you a solid foothold rather than having to scan the entire board at once.

Keep track of eliminated cells

  • Marking cells with an "X" is the best way to maintain your flow in Catdoku. It prevents you from forgetting which cells have been ruled out and keeps the board tidy, especially as color zones begin to intertwine.

Review after every move

  • Placing a new cat can alter the entire row, column, and surrounding area. Therefore, whenever you lock in a position, immediately check the nearby cells. Often, the next move is already right there.

Conclusion

Catdoku keeps the fun of logic puzzles but changes how you get them so they look more fun and stand out. If you like the games where you watch closely and eliminate one by one but don't have to do it fast, this is a great option to sit down and work through a few boards at a relaxed pace.

Catdoku keeps the serious logic of traditional sudoku enough to keep players engrossed from start to finish, but adds a more playful art style.

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