How to Play 15 Puzzle

THE PLAYBOOK · LINCANGCHU

How to play 15 Puzzle

Bring your attention to one round of 15 Puzzle. Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Read the objective before making your first input. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

Try a deliberate move

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Refer to the controls when needed.

Your goal

Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Notice how the game responds to your input.

Step by step

1. Select a tile directly beside the empty square.
2. The tile slides into the gap; diagonal moves are not allowed.
3. Use Undo to step back one move.
4. Finish the ordered board, or choose New puzzle.

Controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

A useful example

When the gap is in the last square, only the tile above it and the tile to its left can move into it. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Choose a deliberate next step.

Watch out for this

A distant tile cannot jump across other tiles. Compare the situation with the worked example. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.

Common questions