[This is a repost from our archives with new notes at the top (original post here): I created this unusual layout for a Sudoku puzzle for the Sudoku Cup several years before re-using the pattern here. The twisted geometry plays a really key role in the logical solving path which means that the difficulty of the puzzle will depend on if you’ve ever solved a sudoku on this grid shape before.]

PDF

or solve online (using our beta test of Penpa-Edit tools)

Theme: Totally Twisted: a challenging grid shape

Rules: Standard Sudo-Kurve rules.

Estimated Difficulty*: 4.5 stars

Time Standards (highlight to view): Grandmaster = 9:00, Master = 15:00, Expert = 30:00

Solution: PDF

Note: Advice on solving this puzzle has now been posted in “Ask Dr. Sudoku #7“