Based on the same rules as the hit KenKen(tm) game, as printed in the New York Times and The Times (uk).

Related to Sudoko, but with a mathematical twist - use the arithmetic challenges in each cage to help solve the puzzle.

Source code available under the GPL.

Authored by Ben Buxton, Paul Dingemans. Contributions by Pimm Hogeling, Stephen Lee, Alexander Tesfamichael, Anthony Paul.

MathDoku is a logic-based puzzle game similar to Sudoku. The objective is to fill a 9x9 grid with numbers from 1 to 9, following specific rules.

Rules:

* Each row, column, and 3x3 subgrid must contain all the numbers from 1 to 9 without repetition.

* Additionally, each 3x3 subgrid contains a cage, indicated by a bold outline.

* Each cage has a target number and an operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division).

* The numbers within the cage must satisfy the given operation and result in the target number.

Solving Techniques:

* Scan Rows, Columns, and Subgrids: Check which numbers are missing in each row, column, and subgrid. This can eliminate possible values for the remaining cells.

* Analyze Cages: Determine the operation and target number for each cage. Use this information to find the possible combinations of numbers that can satisfy the cage.

* Elimination: Rule out numbers that cannot fit in a cell based on the constraints of the row, column, subgrid, and cage.

* Trial and Error: Sometimes, it is necessary to make an educated guess and see if it leads to a solution. If it doesn't, backtrack and try a different combination.

* Look for Intersections: Identify cells that belong to multiple cages. The numbers in these cells must satisfy all the cages they are part of.

Tips:

* Start with the cages that have the most constraints, as they provide the most information.

* Use pencil and paper to keep track of possible values for each cell.

* Don't be afraid to guess and check. MathDoku is a puzzle that requires patience and logical thinking.

* Practice regularly to improve your skills and solve puzzles more efficiently.