How to Play 15 Puzzle

THE PLAYBOOK · 0731222

How to play 15 Puzzle

Try 15 Puzzle at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Focus on one rule

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Refer to the controls when needed.

Your goal

Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Start with a deliberate move.

Step by step

1. Select a tile directly beside the empty square.
2. The tile slides into the gap; diagonal moves are not allowed.
3. Use Undo to step back one move.
4. Finish the ordered board, or choose New puzzle.

Controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.

A useful example

When the gap is in the last square, only the tile above it and the tile to its left can move into it. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Check the stated objective.

Watch out for this

A distant tile cannot jump across other tiles. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Common questions