How to Play 15 Puzzle

THE PLAYBOOK · W3CHACK

How to play 15 Puzzle

15 Puzzle gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. 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. Refer to the controls when needed.

Your goal

Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Notice how the game responds to your input.

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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Use one clear input at a time.

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. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Keep the controls nearby.

Watch out for this

A distant tile cannot jump across other tiles. A different version of the game may use a different rule. 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