Game guide · MMMGZY
An introduction to playing Lights Out
Read the aim of Lights Out, then make your first move. 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. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Build familiarity through play
Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Keep the objective visible.
What you need to achieve
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. Start with a deliberate move.
The order of play
- 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.
How your actions work
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Look at the feedback after the action.
See the idea in action
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Read the matching step again.
Where a round can go wrong
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Further help with the game
On this playing page, 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.
When I return, how do I control Lights Out?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For a quick reminder, 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 my first round, 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.
As a new player, 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.
As a new player, 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.
While learning, where should I start with Lights Out?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Lights Out?
The key detail is this: 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.