Game guide · VISITPHONE
Rules, controls and help for Lights Out
Lights Out gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Use the example below to understand a decision. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.
Try a more deliberate round
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Keep the objective visible.
The challenge in front of you
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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. 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. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Verify the rule before continuing.
A mistake to avoid
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. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
If you are unsure
On this playing page, 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.
While learning, how do I control Lights Out?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
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.
As a new player, what format does Lights Out offer?
Keep this in mind: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
When I return, which play mode does Lights Out use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
Before I begin, where should I start with Lights Out?
Here is the relevant explanation: Select a light or an unlit tile.
Do I need an account or a payment for Lights Out?
The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
On this playing page, 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.
As a new player, how do I report an issue with Lights Out?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
