How to Play the Sliding Puzzle

Rules and solving tips for the sliding puzzle (15 puzzle), for first-time players.

How to play the sliding puzzle

1
The frame holds numbered tiles and one empty space: tiles 1 to 15 on the 4×4 board, 1 to 8 on 3×3 and 1 to 24 on 5×5.
2
A tile next to the empty space (above, below, left or right) can slide into it. Tap a tile in the same row or column as the empty space and the tiles in between slide along with it.
3
Put the tiles in order, 1, 2, 3… left to right and top to bottom, with the empty space in the bottom right corner, to solve the puzzle.
4
Moves are counted by tiles slid. Sliding three tiles at once counts as three moves.
5
Exactly half of all tile arrangements can never be solved. This site only gives you puzzles that can be solved.

Tips for solving it faster

Solve the top row first, then the second row. Once a row is done, avoid breaking it up.
The last two tiles of a row are the tricky part. Line them up vertically first, then rotate them into place around the corner.
When only two rows are left, solve them column by column from the left, placing the top and bottom tiles as a pair.
Start with 3×3, then move on to 4×4 and 5×5. Bigger boards work the same way: top rows first, then the left columns.

Play the Sliding Puzzle →

FAQ

Is the sliding puzzle free to play?

Yes, and there's no sign-up. Play right in your browser on a phone, tablet or computer.

What's the difference between a sliding puzzle and the 15 puzzle?

The 15 puzzle is the classic 4×4 sliding puzzle with tiles 1 to 15. The 3×3 version is also called the 8 puzzle, and the 5×5 version the 24 puzzle.

Can every puzzle be solved?

Yes. Half of all tile arrangements can never be solved, but this site only deals arrangements that can.

Is it a new puzzle every time?

Yes. A new puzzle is dealt each time you play.

Can I undo a move?

Yes. Undo takes back one move at a time, and the move counter goes back too.

Can I continue later?

Yes. On the same device and browser, you can pick up where you left off for each size.

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