How to Play Patches
Patches is a spatial logic game about partitioning a grid into non-overlapping rectangles. Each rectangle must include exactly one anchor cell whose clue determines the required shape (square, wide, tall, or free) and possibly the area. The challenge is covering every cell without gaps or overlaps while satisfying all clue constraints — a unique blend of geometry and deduction.
Patches Rules
Divide the 6×6 grid into non-overlapping rectangles (patches).
Every cell must belong to exactly one patch — no gaps or overlaps.
Each patch must contain exactly one anchor cell with a shape clue.
A patch must match its anchor's shape constraint: square (width = height), wide (width > height), tall (height > width), or free (any shape).
If the anchor shows a number, the patch must have exactly that many cells.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1
Identify the most restrictive clues first — fixed shapes with exact areas near edges have very few possible placements.
- Step 2
Drag from one corner to the opposite corner to draw a rectangle on the board.
- Step 3
Verify each patch satisfies its anchor's shape and area constraints before moving on.
- Step 4
Avoid leaving single isolated cells that cannot connect to any remaining clue.
- Step 5
Tap an existing patch to remove it if you need to adjust your partition.
Strategy & Tips
Start with edge and corner clues — they have the fewest expansion directions.
Large-area clues restrict where neighboring patches can go, so resolve them early.
If a clue is 'free' shape with 'any' area, save it for last since it is the most flexible.
When stuck, look for cells that only one remaining clue can reach — they force a specific patch placement.
Difficulty Levels
The grid is always 6×6. Difficulty is controlled by clue specificity and the number of patches.
Easy
8–10 patches with shape + exact area clues. Clear constraints.
Medium
7–9 patches mixing restricted and free-shape clues.
Hard
6–8 patches including some any-area clues. More ambiguity.
Expert
5–7 patches with multiple free-shape and any-area clues requiring deep deduction.
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