THE PLAYBOOK · SYCX2Z
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. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Look at what changes after your first action.
A careful first round
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. 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. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
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. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Consider the next action carefully.
Watch out for this
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Common questions
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable.
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?
The key detail is this: Tapping the centre changes five cells. Tapping a corner changes three. Diagonal neighbours are not affected.
As a new player, 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.
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?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.