THE PLAYBOOK · SQZAPP
How to play 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. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Look at what changes after your first action.
Read before acting
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Turn every light off. Every supplied starting state is made by valid flips from an all-off board and is therefore solvable. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. The example below illustrates a decision.
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. Use the control method described here for this activity. A new-round button replaces the current round.
A useful 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.
Watch out for this
An unlit tile can still be tapped; it may be necessary to solve the board. Compare the situation with the worked example. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.
Common questions
As a new player, what is the goal 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.
As a new player, how do I control Lights Out?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
When I return, 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.
Before I begin, 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.
Before I begin, 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.
For my first round, which play mode does Lights Out use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
