THE PLAYBOOK · W3CHACK
How to play Lights Out
Use a short break to learn the rhythm 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. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Keep the aim in sight
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. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Review the board or playing area as it changes.
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. Check any mode label before starting.
A useful example
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Check the stated objective.
Watch out for this
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Common questions
For my first round, what is the goal 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.
As a new player, how do I control Lights Out?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For this browser game, what example helps explain Lights Out?
The key detail is this: Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected.
As a new player, 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?
Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For this browser game, 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.