THE PLAYBOOK · MYUEJIA
How to play Lights Out
Start Lights Out by looking at the playing area and its controls. Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Try a deliberate move
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your goal
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. The example below illustrates a decision.
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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. 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. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Take a moment to compare.
Watch out for this
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.
Common questions
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.
As a new player, how do I control Lights Out?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
What example helps explain Lights Out?
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?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
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?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
