THE PLAYBOOK · LYSTDQ
Read before your next round of Lights Out
Bring your attention to one round 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. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Build familiarity through play
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Use the example to check your reasoning.
What you are aiming for
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. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
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.
Using the playing area
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Check any mode label before starting.
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. Take a moment to compare.
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.
A few questions answered
Before I begin, 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.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Lights Out?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, 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 reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Lights Out?
Keep this in mind: An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board.
What format does Lights Out offer?
For clarity: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
As a new player, 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.
