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Play Lights Out with the rules at hand

Take a closer look while playing

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Use the example to check your reasoning.

The purpose of your moves

Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Take a moment to understand the current position.

The playing sequence

  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.

Input guidance

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. 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. Notice the change in the playing area.

Where a round can go wrong

An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Compare the situation with the worked example. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.

Questions that come up during play

For this browser game, what is the goal of Lights Out?

For clarity: Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable.

On this playing page, how do I control Lights Out?

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.

While reading the Guide, 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.

As a new player, 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.

For my first round, where should I start with Lights Out?

For clarity: Select a light or an unlit tile.

While reading the Guide, 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.

As a new player, how can I find Lights Out again?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

While reading the Guide, 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.