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The Lights Out playbook

Practice with a purpose

Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Refer to the controls when needed.

Aim for this result

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. Take a moment to understand the current position.

Making your moves

  1. Select a light or an unlit tile.
  2. The selected tile and its orthogonal neighbours switch state.
  3. Plan flips so that previously cleared rows stay cleared.
  4. Use Undo to try another approach.

How to use the controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

An example before you play

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. Verify the rule before continuing.

Keep this in mind

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.

If you are unsure

For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Lights Out?

Here is the relevant explanation: Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable.

For my first round, how do I control Lights Out?

The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

What example helps explain Lights Out?

For clarity: Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected.

For this browser game, 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.

On this playing page, what format does Lights Out offer?

For clarity: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.

While reading the Guide, which play mode does Lights Out use?

Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

Where should I start with Lights Out?

Select a light or an unlit tile.

On this playing page, do I need an account or a payment for Lights Out?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

On this playing page, how can I find Lights Out again?

For clarity: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

For a quick reminder, how do I report an issue with Lights Out?

The key detail is this: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.