Game guide · SBBEN
Lights Out: learn through an example
Start Lights Out by looking at the playing area and its controls. 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. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Take a closer look while playing
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Notice the feedback after each input.
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. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
Making your moves
- 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.
Your inputs
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
Work through an 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. Take a moment to compare.
Keep this in mind
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
A few questions answered
On this playing page, what is the goal of Lights Out?
For clarity: Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Lights Out?
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?
For clarity: An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board.
For a quick reminder, what format does Lights Out offer?
Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
While learning, 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.
When I return, where should I start with Lights Out?
The key detail is this: Select a light or an unlit tile.
While learning, do I need an account or a payment for Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
Before I begin, how can I find Lights Out again?
Keep this in mind: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
When I return, how do I report an issue with Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: 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.