Game guide · TIANNBO
Follow the steps for Lights Out
Lights Out gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. 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. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.
One thing to notice as you play
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Keep the objective visible.
Understand the aim
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. Start with a deliberate move.
Work through the instructions
- 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.
Getting comfortable with the controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
A useful 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. Consider the next action carefully.
An important reminder
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Answers about the rules and controls
For a quick reminder, 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.
Before I begin, 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.
On this playing page, 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.
On this playing page, 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.
On this playing page, which play mode does Lights Out use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
As a new player, where should I start with Lights Out?
The key detail is this: Select a light or an unlit tile.
For a quick reminder, 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.
Before I begin, how can I find Lights Out again?
Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
How do I report an issue with Lights Out?
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.