Game guide · HBCYGSL
15 Puzzle: rules and examples
Open 15 Puzzle, check the instructions and begin a round. Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Use the example below to understand a decision. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Take a closer look while playing
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.
What you need to achieve
Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Take a moment to understand the current position.
Work through the instructions
- Select a tile directly beside the empty square.
- The tile slides into the gap; diagonal moves are not allowed.
- Use Undo to step back one move.
- Finish the ordered board, or choose New puzzle.
Keyboard and screen controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
Work through an example
When the gap is in the last square, only the tile above it and the tile to its left can move into it. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Read the matching step again.
An important reminder
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.
Clarifying the way this game works
Before I begin, what is the goal of 15 Puzzle?
For clarity: Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right.
How do I control 15 Puzzle?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, what example helps explain 15 Puzzle?
The key detail is this: When the gap is in the last square, only the tile above it and the tile to its left can move into it.
While learning, what should I watch out for in 15 Puzzle?
Keep this in mind: A distant tile cannot jump across other tiles.
While reading the Guide, 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 this browser game, which play mode does 15 Puzzle 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.
For my first round, where should I start with 15 Puzzle?
Here is the relevant explanation: Select a tile directly beside the empty square.
Before I begin, 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.
Before I begin, how can I find 15 Puzzle again?
Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
As a new player, 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.