Yarn Untangle

🧶 Yarn Untangle: Planar Graphs and Topological Sorting

Yarn Untangle is a charming puzzle game that serves as an accessible introduction to Graph Theory, specifically the concept of Planar Graphs. The game presents a set of nodes (kittens) connected by edges (yarn). The objective is to rearrange the nodes so that no two edges intersect. In mathematics, a graph is "planar" if it can be drawn in such a way that no edges cross. The player's task is to find that specific planar embedding.

This game is a 2026 favorite for stress relief because it combines cute aesthetics with a satisfying, orderly mathematical resolution. It transforms the frustration of real-world tangled cables into a solvable topological puzzle.

🧠 Cognitive & Spatial Skills

Untangling requires visualizing spatial relationships:

• Visualizing Intersections: Players must identify which lines are crossing. The game usually highlights crossing lines in red and safe lines in green/yellow. This provides immediate visual feedback.
• Node Independence: Moving one kitten affects all connected lines. Players must predict the ripple effect of a move. "If I move this center node to the left, it fixes line A but crosses line B."
• Iterative Solving: You rarely see the solution instantly. You solve it by untangling one knot at a time, incrementally reducing the crossing number of the graph.

🎮 Mechanics & Systems

The rules follow strict geometric constraints:

• Vertices and Edges: The kittens are vertices; the yarn strings are edges. The complexity scales by adding more vertices and increasing the connectivity (degree) of each vertex.
• The 'Outer Shell' Logic: A common feature of planar graphs is an outer perimeter. Identifying which nodes belong on the outside boundary is often the first step to solving the inner tangle.
• Static vs. Mobile Nodes: In advanced levels, some nodes might be locked in place (pins), forcing you to work around rigid constraints.

🏆 Untangling Strategy

1. Expand the Perimeter

Drag nodes outwards. Creating a wide, circular perimeter creates space in the center. A cramped graph is harder to read. Maximize the area of the polygon you are creating.

2. Isolate the Troublemakers

Look for the node with the most connections (highest degree). This node is likely the cause of most intersections. Move this "hub" node into clear space first, and the rest of the web will often untangle itself around it.

🛡️ Technical Info

Relaxing puzzle engine:

• Haptics: On mobile, the game often vibrates when a line snaps to green, adding tactile satisfaction.
• Audio: Gentle, purring soundtrack designed to lower cortisol levels.

❓ FAQ