THE PLAYBOOK · XZJSCM
How to play Lights Out
Open Lights Out, check the instructions and begin a round. Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Look at what changes after your first action.
Try a deliberate move
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Check the rules when you are unsure.
Step by step
- Select a light or an unlit tile.
- The selected tile and its orthogonal neighbours switch state.
- Plan flips so that previously cleared rows stay cleared.
- Use Undo to try another approach.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
A useful example
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Keep the game’s format in mind.
Watch out for this
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Check the rule before repeating the action. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.
Common questions
What is the goal of Lights Out?
The key detail is this: Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Lights Out?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For this browser game, what example helps explain Lights Out?
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected.
When I return, what should I watch out for in Lights Out?
The key detail is this: An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board.
What format does Lights Out offer?
The key detail is this: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
As a new player, which play mode does Lights Out use?
The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.