THE PLAYBOOK · SJBOB
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. Read the objective before making your first input. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Keep the aim in sight
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. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Notice how the game responds to your input.
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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
A useful example
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Verify the rule before continuing.
Watch out for this
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Common questions
As a new player, what is the goal 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.
While learning, how do I control Lights Out?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, 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.
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.
While reading the Guide, 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.
Before I begin, 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.