THE PLAYBOOK · 0731222
How to play Lights Out
Bring your attention to one round of Lights Out. 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. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
A useful comparison
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Refer to the controls when needed.
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. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
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. Look for the relevant detail.
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. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Common questions
For this browser game, 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.
While learning, how do I control Lights Out?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, what example helps explain Lights Out?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board.
For my first round, what format does Lights Out offer?
Keep this in mind: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For a quick reminder, which play mode does Lights Out use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.