Game guide · QWBEN
A practical guide to Lights Out
Open Lights Out, check the instructions and begin a round. Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Something to practise
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. 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. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
From the start of a round
- 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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. A new-round button replaces the current round.
Work through an example
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Take a moment to compare.
Pay attention to this rule
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. 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.
Questions that come up during play
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.
While learning, 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?
For clarity: 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?
Keep this in mind: 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?
For clarity: 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?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
For this browser game, where should I start with Lights Out?
For clarity: Select a light or an unlit tile.
Before I begin, 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.
While reading the Guide, 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.
For a quick reminder, 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.
