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SXSMQZJ

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play 15 Puzzle

Play 15 Puzzle ↗

Game guide · SXSMQZJ

15 Puzzle: a guide for your next round

Try 15 Puzzle at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Look at what changes after your first action. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Use the example below to understand a decision.

One thing to notice as you play

Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Make the next step deliberately.

The purpose of your moves

Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

Making your moves

  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.

Choosing and moving on screen

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.

One way to understand the rules

When the gap is in the last square, only the tile above it and the tile to its left can move into it. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Consider the next action carefully.

A useful caution

A distant tile cannot jump across other tiles. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.

Further help with the game

For my first round, what is the goal of 15 Puzzle?

Here is the relevant explanation: Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right.

While learning, how do I control 15 Puzzle?

The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

As a new player, what example helps explain 15 Puzzle?

Here is the relevant explanation: When the gap is in the last square, only the tile above it and the tile to its left can move into it.

What should I watch out for in 15 Puzzle?

The key detail is this: A distant tile cannot jump across other tiles.

As a new player, what format does 15 Puzzle 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 15 Puzzle 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.

For this browser game, where should I start with 15 Puzzle?

The key detail is this: Select a tile directly beside the empty square.

On this playing page, do I need an account or a payment for 15 Puzzle?

Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For a quick reminder, how can I find 15 Puzzle again?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

For this browser game, how do I report an issue with 15 Puzzle?

The key detail is this: 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.

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