How to play Pips (the NYT's domino logic puzzle)
Pips hands you a set of dominoes and a board carved into regions, each with a rule. Place every domino so every rule is satisfied. Easy boards teach the grammar; hard boards demand real deduction. Three new puzzles arrive daily.
Region rules
| Symbol | Rule |
|---|---|
| = | Every cell in the region holds the same pip value |
| > n / < n | Each cell must be greater / less than n |
| Number | The region's cells must sum to that number |
| ≠ | Cells in the region must all differ |
| Blank | No constraint — a safe dumping ground |
The solving order that works
- Forced cells first. Single-cell regions with a tight rule (">5" means a 6) pin one half of some domino immediately.
- Count the equals regions. A six-cell "=" region needs six matching halves — check which pip value you can actually supply six of. Usually only one value works.
- Sum regions: min–max them. Add the smallest and largest values your remaining dominoes could contribute; if the target is near an extreme, placements become forced.
- Use domino pairing. Values come welded in pairs — needing a 6 in one cell means its partner value lands next door. The partner cell's region often vetoes candidates.
- Blank regions last. They're your escape valves; don't fill them until constrained regions are done.
Board overview, strategy nudges and full placements for all three of today's boards: Pips hints for today →