Group Sums Sudoku (Mini Sudoku Series #62)

This Group Sums Sudoku is a puzzle type with a storied history, introduced around 2007 and once considered the most feared Sudoku variant. At first glance, it resembles Killer Sudoku, but there's a crucial difference: in Group Sums Sudoku, the digits within a circled sum can repeat, which opens up a very different solving path. This puzzle was created for the Sudoku Mahabharat Math Variation test, and I personally crafted a couple of these to become comfortable with its unique logic.

The rules are classic for a 6x6 grid, but the circles add a powerful constraint: each circle's number is the sum of the digits in the cells it covers. Since repetition is allowed, you must consider all possible combinations of digits (1-6) that could reach that sum. It's a print-friendly puzzle, ideal for solvers looking to explore a classic variant with a fascinating twist.

Rules of the Group Sums Sudoku

Mini Classic Sudoku Rules apply. Additionally, the number in each circle indicates the sum of the digits in the cells covered by the corresponding circle. The number can repeat in the given sum.