About Sliding Puzzle
Play the classic 15-puzzle online for free. Slide numbered tiles into the single empty space, one move at a time, until every tile is arranged in order. Simple rules, satisfying spatial-reasoning logic.
The Rules
Slide numbered tiles into the empty space to arrange them in order.
Step by Step
- Tap any tile next to the empty space to slide it into the gap.
- Only tiles directly adjacent to the empty space can move.
- Keep sliding tiles until every number is in order, reading left to right, top to bottom.
- The empty space should end up in the bottom-right corner when solved.
Tips & Strategy
- Solve the top row and left column first, then treat the rest as a smaller sliding puzzle.
- When placing the last two tiles of a row, it sometimes takes a temporary detour before they lock in — that's normal.
- Plan two or three moves ahead rather than sliding tiles one at a time by instinct.
- Once the top rows and left columns are solved, resist moving tiles back into them — treat that space as locked and solve only what's left.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every shuffled puzzle solvable?
Yes — the board is always shuffled using only valid moves, so a solution is guaranteed.
Is this the same as the classic 15-puzzle?
Yes, this is the traditional 15-puzzle with numbered tiles sliding into a single empty space.
Why can't I finish the last two tiles?
That's the classic '2x2 parity' snag — swap them in temporarily using a short detour through the row below, then finish placing the rest of the row. It's normal, not a broken puzzle.
