Game guide · GCROWNSPA
How to play Lights Out
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. Look at what changes after your first action. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
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.
Understand the aim
Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Check the rules when you are unsure.
The steps to 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.
Using the playing area
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.
Work through an example
Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Keep the game’s format in mind.
A useful caution
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round.
Questions that come up during play
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Lights Out?
The key detail is this: Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable.
On this playing page, how do I control Lights Out?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
On this playing page, 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.
On this playing page, 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.
Before I begin, 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.
For a quick reminder, 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.
For my first round, where should I start with Lights Out?
Select a light or an unlit tile.
While learning, 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.
As a new player, 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.
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.