Sliding Puzzle (15-Puzzle)

Slide the tiles to arrange numbers 1-15 in order. The last cell should be empty. A classic puzzle game that tests your logic and patience!

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Moves: 0

Time: 00:00

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You solved the puzzle in 0 moves and 00:00!

Swipe or tap near the empty space to move tiles

About Sliding Puzzle (15-Puzzle)

The 15-Puzzle, also known as the sliding puzzle, is a classic mechanical puzzle that has entertained people for over a century. The puzzle consists of a 4x4 grid containing 15 numbered square tiles and one empty space. Tiles adjacent to the empty space can be slid into it, rearranging the grid.

The goal is to rearrange the tiles from a shuffled configuration into numerical order, with the empty space at the bottom-right corner. Despite its simple rules, the puzzle offers a satisfying challenge that improves problem-solving skills and spatial reasoning.

This browser-based version lets you play the classic 15-Puzzle anytime, anywhere. Track your moves and time as you try to beat your personal best. The game is completely free and works on both desktop and mobile devices.

How to Play This Game?

  • Start the game: Click the "Shuffle" button to randomize the tiles and begin playing.
  • Move tiles: Click or tap a tile that is adjacent (up, down, left, or right) to the empty space to slide it into that space.
  • Goal: Arrange all 15 tiles in numerical order from 1 to 15, left to right and top to bottom, with the empty space in the bottom-right corner.
  • Track progress: Watch your move counter and timer to see how efficiently you solve the puzzle.
  • Reset: Click "Reset" to stop the current game and start fresh.
  • Win: When you complete the puzzle, you'll see your final stats and can play again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play this game on my phone?
Yes! The Sliding Puzzle works on both desktop and mobile devices. On touchscreens, simply tap a tile adjacent to the empty space to move it.
How do I solve the puzzle?
Slide tiles one at a time into the empty space. Work on positioning the higher numbers first (15, 14, 13, etc.) in their correct corners, then solve the remaining rows from top to bottom.
Is every shuffled arrangement solvable?
Not all random arrangements are solvable. Approximately half of random configurations are unsolvable. Our shuffle algorithm ensures the puzzle is always solvable by starting from the solved state and making random valid moves.
What is a good number of moves?
The minimum number of moves to solve a randomly shuffled 15-Puzzle varies. Most casual players solve it in 50-100 moves. Try to improve your time and move count with each game!

Tips

  • Work row by row: Complete the top three rows first, keeping the last two columns for last. This systematic approach reduces complexity.
  • Position tiles in order: Place tile 1 in the top-left, then 2 next to it, then 3, and so on. Complete each row before moving to the next.
  • Don't disrupt completed rows: Once a row is correctly placed, try not to disturb it unless absolutely necessary, as it can be difficult to restore.
  • Use the empty space strategically: Think ahead about where you want to move tiles, positioning the empty space to allow those moves.
  • Practice pattern recognition: With practice, you'll recognize common tile arrangements and learn efficient sequences to solve them.
  • Stay patient: The 15-Puzzle requires patience. If you get stuck, take a break and come back with fresh perspective.