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YXZZZ

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Lights Out

Play Lights Out ↗

Game guide · YXZZZ

Lights Out: instructions and practice

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. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.

A small practice goal

When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Refer to the controls when needed.

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. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Keep the controls in easy reach.

Start here and follow along

  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.

Making selections and moves

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

A closer look at one example

Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Check the stated objective.

Check this before moving on

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. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.

If you are unsure

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.

As a new player, how do I control Lights Out?

Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Lights Out?

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

While learning, 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.

When I return, 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.

As a new player, 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.

When I return, where should I start with Lights Out?

Here is the relevant explanation: Select a light or an unlit tile.

As a new player, do I need an account or a payment for Lights Out?

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?

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.

While learning, how do I report an issue with Lights Out?

For clarity: 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.

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