Game guide · SXSS56
Making your first moves in Lights Out
Lights Out gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Look at what changes after your first action. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Give this approach a try
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.
The goal to keep in mind
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. Check the rules when you are unsure.
How a round unfolds
- 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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Use one clear input at a time.
See the idea in action
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Look for the relevant detail.
A mistake to avoid
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Read these answers for extra help
As a new player, what is the goal of Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable.
Before I begin, how do I control Lights Out?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, 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.
When I return, 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.
For my first round, what format does Lights Out offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For a quick reminder, 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.
As a new player, where should I start with Lights Out?
For clarity: Select a light or an unlit tile.
While learning, do I need an account or a payment for Lights Out?
For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
For a quick reminder, how can I find Lights Out again?
The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
As a new player, how do I report an issue with Lights Out?
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.
