Game guide · HBYDMS
Lights Out: rules and examples
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. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.
A focus for your next round
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. 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. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Start with a deliberate move.
A walkthrough of the rules
- 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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use one clear input at a time.
One way to understand the rules
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. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.
Answers about the rules and controls
While learning, 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.
For my first round, how do I control Lights Out?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, what example helps explain Lights Out?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
The key detail is this: 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.
While reading the Guide, which play mode does Lights Out use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
While reading the Guide, where should I start with Lights Out?
For clarity: Select a light or an unlit tile.
While reading the Guide, 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.
When I return, 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.
For a quick reminder, how do I report an issue with Lights Out?
For clarity: 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.
