How to Play 15 Puzzle

THE PLAYBOOK · AWTKANAPOLI

How to play 15 Puzzle

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. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Build a steady rhythm

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. Refer to the controls when needed.

Your goal

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. The example below illustrates a decision.

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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.

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. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Consider the next action carefully.

Watch out for this

A distant tile cannot jump across other tiles. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. 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.

Common questions