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Play Lights Out with the rules at hand

Build familiarity through play

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Notice the feedback after each input.

The challenge in front of you

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. Keep the controls in easy reach.

Follow these playing steps

  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.

How to interact with the game

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Check any mode label before starting.

See the idea in action

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.

A mistake to avoid

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.

If you are unsure

As a new player, what is the goal of Lights Out?

Here is the relevant explanation: Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable.

For my first round, how do I control Lights Out?

The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

For my first round, 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?

Keep this in mind: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.

For a quick reminder, which play mode does Lights Out use?

Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

For this browser game, where should I start with Lights Out?

Here is the relevant explanation: Select a light or an unlit tile.

For this browser game, 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.

Before I begin, 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.

For my first round, how do I report an issue with Lights Out?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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.