THE PLAYBOOK · 373GS
How to play Lights Out
Use a short break to learn the rhythm 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. Use the example below to understand a decision. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Read before acting
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
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.
Step by step
- 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.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Check any mode label before starting.
A useful 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. Keep the game’s format in mind.
Watch out for this
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. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Common questions
For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Lights Out?
The key detail is this: Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Lights Out?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
When I return, 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 a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Lights Out?
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board.
Before I begin, what format does Lights Out offer?
Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
On this playing page, 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.
