Game guide · HRBJFRHG
The Lights Out playbook
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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. 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
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Understand the aim
Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Notice how the game responds to your input.
The steps to play
- 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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
See how the rules apply
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. Take a moment to compare.
Watch out for this
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.
Answers about the rules and controls
While learning, 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.
When I return, how do I control Lights Out?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, what example helps explain Lights Out?
Here is the relevant explanation: Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Lights Out?
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board.
What format does Lights Out offer?
The key detail is this: 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?
For clarity: 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: Select a light or an unlit tile.
Before I begin, do I need an account or a payment for Lights Out?
The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
For this browser game, 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.
As a new player, 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.