Game guide · XUEWEIBA
Lights Out: rules and examples
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. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
A focus for your next round
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Use the example to check your reasoning.
The objective of a round
Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Take a moment to understand the current position.
A walkthrough of the rules
- 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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
See how the rules apply
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Read the matching step again.
Keep this in mind
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Compare the situation with the worked example. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Questions about this game
For a quick reminder, 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.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Lights Out?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Lights Out?
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?
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board.
Before I begin, 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?
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?
The key detail is this: Select a light or an unlit tile.
While learning, do I need an account or a payment for Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: 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.
When I return, 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.
