IQ#2 [x², (x+10)², (x+20)²]
The encryption key tells us how the digits on the board have been encoded.
To correctly fill in the empty cells, first decrypt the numbers (i.e., use the inverse of the encryption key) to find the correct digit for each square.
Next, apply the standard Sudoku rules: compare the digits in the rows, columns, and 3×3 boxes to eliminate impossible options and determine the right digit.
The following step is to re-encrypt the chosen digit – that is, substitute it into the formula (the fragment of the key corresponding to that module) and then enter the resulting value on the board.
In the end, you will have filled the entire grid so that it is encrypted exactly according to the same key as the original puzzle – except now every cell is complete.
Encryption key: [x², (x+10)², (x+20)²]
| Digit |
Module I (cols. 1–3) [x² |
Module II (cols. 4–6) (x+10)² |
Module III (cols. 7–9) (x+20)²] |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 121 | 441 |
| 2 | 4 | 144 | 484 |
| 3 | 9 | 169 | 529 |
| 4 | 16 | 196 | 576 |
| 5 | 25 | 225 | 625 |
| 6 | 36 | 256 | 676 |
| 7 | 49 | 289 | 729 |
| 8 | 64 | 324 | 784 |
| 9 | 81 | 361 | 841 |
How to Solve Crypto #2?
Select the appropriate vertical module (3 columns).
Decrypt the cell by using the inverse of the encryption key.
Apply sudoku rules to find the correct digit for that position.
Encrypt the chosen digit (according to the key for that module) and enter its form on the grid.
Repeat these steps until the entire grid is filled with encrypted values.
The Japanese Rise of Sudoku – How the Puzzle Conquered the World
Although sudoku’s roots trace back to Europe, it was in Japan that the game gained remarkable popularity and evolved into its modern form. In the 1980s, the Japanese publishing house Nikoli recognized the potential of this brain-teasing puzzle. As a result, sudoku began appearing regularly in Japanese magazines, and soon after, in daily newspapers.
Interestingly, unlike earlier European versions, the Japanese version was promoted under the name “Sudoku”, which is short for “single number.” This simple and catchy name made the puzzle instantly recognizable and helped it win over countless fans across Japan. Moreover, Japanese publishers introduced additional variants and difficulty levels, which only increased the game’s appeal.
It is worth noting that sudoku’s popularity in Japan grew so rapidly that it soon spread to other Asian countries. However, it wasn’t until the early 21st century that sudoku truly captured the hearts of players worldwide, thanks largely to its publication in British newspapers and its rapid expansion on the internet.
In conclusion, it is thanks to Japanese creators and publishers that sudoku became a global phenomenon. Today, online sudoku is available almost everywhere, offering both classic grids and modern variations with mathematical encryption keys. Therefore, every puzzle enthusiast can find a version perfectly suited to their preferences.