Zahlenfix (Tagesspiegel)

About Zahlenfix (Tagesspiegel)

Zahlenfix sits in the Tagesspiegel's games section next to its word puzzles. The puzzle runs on PZLR, a platform that serves scheduled daily puzzles to publishers, and each day's grid is set for that date.

The board is a five by five square of digits from 1 to 9. Next to each row and under each column is a target number. Tap a digit to strike it out; the remaining digits in that row and column are what count. When every row and every column adds up to its target, the puzzle is solved and the timer stops. If a line is already right, tapping its target clears the rest of that line for you. A hint can reveal one wrong cell, and a check marks your mistakes.

It is a German take on the sum-elimination idea found in puzzles such as Sumplete, short enough for a coffee break. It suits players who like arithmetic logic more than word games, and the small grid means you can usually finish without pen and paper.

How to play Zahlenfix (Tagesspiegel)

1. Look at the target sum beside each row and below each column.
2. Tap digits to cross them out; only the digits you keep count towards the sums.
3. Work through rows and columns where only one combination of digits can reach the target.
4. When a line already matches its target, tap the target to clear the remaining digits in it.
5. Finish when every row and column adds up exactly; your time is recorded.

Tips

• Start with lines whose target equals the sum of all their digits (keep everything) or is very small (keep few).
• A digit larger than its row or column target must be crossed out.
• Use the overlap: a cell must satisfy both its row and its column at once.
• Save the hint for the end, when only a few uncertain cells remain.

Questions