Sand Shape Level 87 Solution

Level Overview

Sand Shape Level 87 is a block-fitting puzzle that challenges players to fill a complex, irregular grid shape with various colored polyominoes. The primary objective is to strategically place all the provided blocks to completely fill the outlined area, adhering strictly to the 'Difference connects different shapes' rule, which mandates that adjacent blocks must always be of different colors. Players must also manage their time, as the level features a countdown timer.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Start by dragging the yellow vertical 1x2 block from the right and place it into the two uppermost squares on the far left side of the main puzzle grid (occupying positions equivalent to (0,0) and (0,1)).
2. Next, take the green horizontal 1x2 block and position it immediately to the right of the yellow block, ensuring it fills the two adjacent squares (equivalent to (1,0) and (1,1)).
3. Drag the teal vertical 1x2 block and place it to the right of the green block, filling the two squares located at the top-right corner of the larger puzzle shape (equivalent to (2,0) and (2,1)).
4. Now, select the blue L-shaped block and position it directly below the yellow 1x2 block, covering the area to the left of the central hole and extending downwards to the far left (equivalent to (0,2), (0,3), and (1,2)).
5. Take the purple L-shaped block and place it to the right of the blue L-shape, directly below the green 1x2 block, so it wraps around the bottom-right section of the central hole area (equivalent to (1,3), (2,3), and (2,4)).
6. Drag the red horizontal 1x2 block and place it below the lower arm of the blue L-shape, filling the two leftmost squares at the bottom of the puzzle area (equivalent to (0,4) and (1,4)).
7. Position the orange L-shaped block in the bottom-left corner of the puzzle. It should connect to the red 1x2 block above it and the purple L-shape to its right (equivalent to (0,5), (1,5), and (0,6)).
8. Take the blue vertical 1x2 block and place it in the bottom-right corner of the puzzle grid. It will connect to the teal 1x2 block (top right) and the purple L-shape (equivalent to (3,4) and (3,5)).
9. Select the final red L-shaped block and place it to the left of the central 1x1 hole. This piece will fill the remaining empty space between the orange L-shape, the purple L-shape, and the central void (equivalent to (2,5), (2,6), and (1,6)).
10. Finally, drag the yellow 1x1 block and drop it directly into the central single-square hole to complete the puzzle (equivalent to (2,2)).

Pro Tips

• Always prioritize observing the Difference connects different shapes rule to avoid having to restart or undo multiple placements. Plan your color adjacencies carefully.
• Begin by placing the larger and more uniquely shaped blocks first. Securing these complex pieces often simplifies the remaining smaller gaps.
• Work methodically from the outer boundaries inwards, or around prominent features like the central hole, to ensure efficient use of space.
• If you find yourself stuck, mentally review alternative rotations or placements for already-placed blocks, or use a hint if available and necessary.
• Keep an eye on the countdown timer. While planning is important, avoid excessive hesitation that could lead to running out of time.

Common Mistakes

• Ignoring the color adjacency rule: A frequent error is placing two blocks of the same color side-by-side, which immediately invalidates the placement and requires adjustment.
• Creating unfillable gaps: Misplacing larger blocks can lead to small, irregularly shaped empty areas that cannot be filled by any of the remaining available pieces.
• Rushing placements: Hastily dragging and dropping blocks without considering their optimal rotation or future implications can lead to cascading errors and wasted time.

Frequently Asked Questions