Game Rules
The 4x4 board holds numbered tiles from 1 to 15 and one empty space. Click any tile next to (above, below, or beside) the empty space to slide it into that spot. Keep sliding tiles until they're arranged in order from 1, 2, 3...15, starting at the top-left, with the empty space last β then you've won.
History of the Sliding Puzzle
The 15 puzzle is a classic puzzle that became a craze in the United States starting in the 1870s. It has since been recreated in countless versions around the world and remains one of the most beloved logic puzzles, enjoyed by people of any language.
Note
Not every arrangement of tiles can actually be solved, so this game always shuffles the tiles into a solvable arrangement. Feel free to jump right in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I click any tile I want?
No, only a tile that's directly adjacent to the empty space (in the same row or column) can move. Clicking a tile that isn't adjacent does nothing.
Is there a way to solve it faster?
Yes β a common strategy is to solve the top row and left column first, then work on the remaining smaller grid the same way, saving the last two tiles for a simple rotation at the end.