How to Play 15 Puzzle

THE PLAYBOOK · HONGRENYOU

How to play 15 Puzzle

Take a moment with 15 Puzzle before moving to another game. Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Look at what changes after your first action. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.

Keep the aim in sight

Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules. Keep the objective visible.

Your goal

Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Review the board or playing area as it changes.

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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

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. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Consider the next action carefully.

Watch out for this

A distant tile cannot jump across other tiles. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.

Common questions