This is the fourth puzzle in a loop series that uses thermometer clues. Estimated difficulty is somewhere between 3 and 4 stars. Links to the previous puzzles in the series is given below.
Heated Whisper Loop
Heated Dutch Loop
Heated Entropic Loop
Rules:
Normal Sudoku rules apply: Place the digits 1 to 9 in every row, column, and 3x3 box.
Along thermometers, digits must strictly increase from the bulb to the tip.
Draw a one-cell-wide loop of orthogonally connected cells. The loop may not touch itself, not even diagonally.
-- All thermometer bulbs must be on the loop.
-- The digit in a thermometer bulb gives the total number of loop cells in the 3x3 Sudoku box containing the bulb.
-- The loop acts as a region sum line. The sum of digits along the loop is the same in each 3x3 box the loop enters. If the loop enters a box multiple times, the sum is counted separately for each segment.
Solution code: Row 4
on 5. March 2024, 11:43 by ninjamunk
I very much like this puzzle! Very elegant break in and a consistent solve thoughout. Bravo
on 3. March 2024, 14:44 by wuc
Very approachabe start. Hard but fair. Great flow. Love math puzzles. Thx.
on 3. March 2024, 13:21 by samuel1997
Incredible!
on 2. March 2024, 18:29 by marcmees
very nice opening moves. Thanks.
on 1. March 2024, 22:41 by Bootenks
Yttrio, your Sudoku had a captivating start that immediately drew me in. It wasn't overly challenging, which I appreciated, as it kept the experience enjoyable and accessible. After the initial phase, everything moved along swiftly, maintaining a lively pace that made it all the more fun. Overall, you've done a fantastic job creating a balanced and enjoyable puzzle. Well done!