Game guide · KSZXDJJ
Rules, controls and help for Lights Out
Try Lights Out at your own pace and keep its objective in view. 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. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.
An idea for your next attempt
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Keep the objective visible.
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. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Review the board or playing area as it changes.
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.
The controls to know
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
Follow the 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. Keep the controls nearby.
Pay attention to this rule
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Common questions
As a new player, 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.
Before I begin, how do I control Lights Out?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
Before I begin, 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.
For this browser game, 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.
As a new player, what format does Lights Out offer?
Keep this in mind: 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.
For my first round, where should I start with Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: Select a light or an unlit tile.
For a quick reminder, 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.
While learning, how can I find Lights Out again?
Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
Before I begin, 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.