If you’ve been solving the same old 9×9 Sudoku grid every day, you’re barely getting started. There’s a whole world of puzzle variations out there that stretch your brain way further than the basics. These aren’t just gimmicks – they force you to think differently, track more patterns, and stay sharp.
If you’re looking for more logic, some math, or just a fresh challenge, there’s definitely a version for you. You don’t need to be a Sudoku expert. You just need to be ready to push past easy mode.
Here are the best types of Sudoku to test your focus, logic, and memory.
Extremely Hard Sudoku
This is the standard 9×9 grid but the super hard version. You may have done some hard puzzle before, but these take it to the next level.
Solving harder versions improves your logic speed and helps you spot patterns faster. This book is packed with over 1000 puzzles, so it’ll basically last you forever.
Samurai Sudoku
This type uses five overlapping 9×9 grids – one in the center, and one in each corner. Each grid follows the usual rules, but the overlapping regions link them together. That means solving one puzzle can affect the others.
It takes more time and more focus. You need to remember values across multiple boards and avoid jumping too far ahead. But it’s worth it. It sharpens long-form thinking and teaches patience.
Sukaku Sudoku
Sukaku puzzles give you way more numbers at the start – often over 50 clues. That sounds easier, but it’s not. These puzzles usually require advanced techniques because the clues are placed in ways that block obvious solutions.
What looks full is actually tight. You won’t get many easy wins. You’ll need to trace logic chains, use pencil marks, and eliminate step by step. It’s one of the best formats if you want to train real problem-solving endurance.
Skyscraper Sudoku
This variation looks like a normal 9×9 grid, but each row and column also has small numbers around the edges – clues that tell you how many “buildings” you can see from that angle. Each number placed in the grid is treated like a building with that many floors.
A 9 is a tall building. A 1 is a short one. If you’re told you can see “3” buildings from the left, it means only 3 different heights are visible before a taller number blocks the rest.
It’s a mix of Sudoku and logic puzzle. It requires spatial awareness and forces you to consider visibility and height, not just placement.
Even Odd Sudoku
This puzzle adds a simple twist: some squares are marked as even or odd. That means you can only place even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8) in certain cells, and odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) in others.
This changes the flow. You’re no longer just thinking about rows and boxes. You’re also tracking number types. It limits options and creates new openings if you learn to use it right.
Great for improving number grouping and logical filtering.
Greater Than Sudoku
Also called “Inequality Sudoku,” this version uses arrows or symbols between squares to show which number is greater. For example, a cell might have a > symbol pointing to another – telling you the left number must be higher.
It’s not just about fitting numbers anymore. You’re now dealing with hierarchy. You’ll often start with zero numbers filled in and only the inequality signs as clues.
It looks confusing at first. But once you understand how to break it down, it becomes one of the most rewarding types to solve.
The Best Types of Sudoku to Challenge Your Brain
And there you have it. Sudoku can be a pretty challenging game on its own, but having fun variations can increase the challenge immensely and give your a brain a great workout. Try out some of these options, and you may find that you never want to go back to regular sudoku.
