Game guide · LYSZJX
Lights Out: from controls to your first round
Choose a round of Lights Out and settle into its rules. 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. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Bring this focus to a round
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Notice the feedback after each input.
The goal to keep in mind
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. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
From the start of a round
- 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 to use the controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use one clear input at a time.
An example before you play
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Verify the rule before continuing.
A useful caution
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Compare the situation with the worked example. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Answers about the rules and controls
For my first round, what is the goal of Lights Out?
For clarity: 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?
For clarity: Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected.
For this browser game, 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.
For a quick reminder, what format does Lights Out offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
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.
When I return, where should I start with Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: Select a light or an unlit tile.
When I return, do I need an account or a payment for Lights Out?
For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
While reading the Guide, how can I find Lights Out again?
The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
When I return, how do I report an issue with Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: 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.