Game guide · CTCPX
15 Puzzle: what to know before playing
Start 15 Puzzle by looking at the playing area and its controls. 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 familiarity through 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 goal to keep in mind
Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Check the rules when you are unsure.
The order of play
- 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.
The controls to know
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. 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. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Look for the relevant detail.
Watch out for this
A distant tile cannot jump across other tiles. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Questions that come up during play
Before I begin, what is the goal of 15 Puzzle?
Keep this in mind: Arrange 1 to 15 in reading order with the empty square at the bottom right.
While reading the Guide, how do I control 15 Puzzle?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For this browser game, what example helps explain 15 Puzzle?
Keep this in mind: When the gap is in the last square, only the tile above it and the tile to its left can move into it.
For a quick reminder, 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?
The key detail is this: Play using the solo mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
While reading the Guide, which play mode does 15 Puzzle use?
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?
Keep this in mind: Select a tile directly beside the empty square.
For this browser game, do I need an account or a payment for 15 Puzzle?
Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
On this playing page, 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?
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.