Shengshou Magnetic Number sliding Klotski

ShengShou Magnetic Number Sliding Klotski

A classic number sliding puzzle in a magnetic version from ShengShou. ShengShou Magnetic Number Sliding Klotski is a "fifteen puzzle" (15 puzzle). The 4x4 board holds 15 numbered tiles, with one space left empty. You slide the tiles horizontally or vertically into the free space. The goal is to put the numbers in order, from left to right and from top to bottom.

How to solve it

The rules take a minute to explain, so this sliding puzzle works well as a first logic puzzle, including for kids. Solving it, however, takes some planning. To get a tile into place, you often have to briefly move the ones you have already solved. The simplest method is to solve it in order: first the top row, then the second, and finally the last two rows together.

If you solve cubes, the sliding puzzle gives you a break from them while training a skill that comes in handy with cubes too. Sliding puzzles can also be solved against the clock. Your result then depends mainly on how well you plan your next moves, a bit like lookahead on a 3x3. Pure finger speed matters less here.

How to scramble it so it can be solved

The best way to scramble the puzzle is simply by sliding the tiles. Any position created this way can always be solved. If you take the tiles out and put them back in a random order, roughly half of those positions have no solution. You will end up with two swapped numbers that cannot be put back in place.

Who is it for?

For kids and adults who enjoy logic puzzles, and for cubers who want something different from yet another cube. The board measures approx. 11.5 x 11.5 cm and is flat, so it is easy to take on a trip or to school. It makes a great gift for someone who likes a brain teaser but does not necessarily want to learn algorithms.

Specifications

• Type: number sliding puzzle (sliding puzzle / Klotski), 4x4 board, 15 numbered tiles
• Manufacturer: ShengShou
• Design: magnetic
• Dimensions: approx. 115 x 115 x 25 mm
• Colour variant: Primary