THE PLAYBOOK · BLCQC
Your guide to 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. Use the example below to understand a decision. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Look at what changes after your first action.
Practice beyond the first move
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Use the example to check your reasoning.
The challenge in front of you
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. Start with a deliberate move.
Follow these playing steps
- 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.
How to use the controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
An example before you play
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Keep the game’s format in mind.
A common point of confusion
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Check the rule before repeating the action. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.
Questions about this game
On this playing page, 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.
How do I control Lights Out?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, what example helps explain Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected.
While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Lights Out?
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board.
For this browser game, what format does Lights Out offer?
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?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.