THE PLAYBOOK · QINSMAN
How to play Lights Out
Make Lights Out your next activity in the game library. Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Notice the feedback
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.
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. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
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. A new-round button replaces the current round.
A useful example
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. Check the stated objective.
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
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.
As a new player, how do I control Lights Out?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, what example helps explain Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected.
While learning, what should I watch out for in Lights Out?
For clarity: An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board.
Before I begin, what format does Lights Out offer?
Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For my first round, 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.