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RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Sokoban

Play Sokoban ↗

Game guide · SXSMQZJ

Sokoban: what to know before playing

Start Sokoban by looking at the playing area and its controls. Push every crate onto a target. Look at what changes after your first action. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Push two crates onto their targets in compact 7×7 rooms. The starting layouts can be solved; an unhelpful push may still trap a crate.

Practice with a purpose

Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Keep the objective visible.

The goal to keep in mind

Push every crate onto a target. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Try to explain the aim in your own words.

The steps to play

  1. Move through empty floor.
  2. Push one crate into empty space.
  3. Never pull or push two at once.
  4. Undo a deadlock and continue.

Getting comfortable with the controls

Arrow keys or direction buttons. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.

A closer look at one example

A crate in a non-target corner cannot be recovered by pulling. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Keep the controls nearby.

A mistake to avoid

Consider the player’s access behind crates. 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.

Read these answers for extra help

Before I begin, what is the goal of Sokoban?

Here is the relevant explanation: Push every crate onto a target.

When I return, how do I control Sokoban?

The key detail is this: Arrow keys or direction buttons.

On this playing page, what example helps explain Sokoban?

Keep this in mind: A crate in a non-target corner cannot be recovered by pulling.

What should I watch out for in Sokoban?

For clarity: Consider the player’s access behind crates.

What format does Sokoban offer?

Push two crates onto their targets in compact 7×7 rooms. The starting layouts can be solved; an unhelpful push may still trap a crate.

Which play mode does Sokoban 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.

As a new player, where should I start with Sokoban?

For clarity: Move through empty floor.

While reading the Guide, do I need an account or a payment for Sokoban?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For a quick reminder, how can I find Sokoban 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 a quick reminder, how do I report an issue with Sokoban?

For clarity: 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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