15-Puzzle
Slide tiles into numerical order.
↑ This is 15-Puzzle running right here in your browser — no download needed.
About the game
The 15-Puzzle is a sliding-tile classic: arrange fifteen numbered tiles in order by sliding them into the single empty space.
How to play
Click a tile adjacent to the blank to slide it. Your goal is to order the tiles 1-15. Plan moves so you don't bury tiles you need.
Tips & strategy
['Solve one row or column at a time, top to bottom.', 'Keep the solved edge intact as you work inward.', 'Avoid disturbing completed rows.']
Advanced guide
Solve the 15-Puzzle methodically: complete the top row first, then the leftmost column, reducing the problem to a smaller grid. The final 2x2 is solved by cycling three tiles. Keep your solved edges untouched to avoid frustration.
History & origins
Invented in the 1870s, the 15-Puzzle triggered a worldwide craze and even caused injuries among obsessed solvers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can some arrangements be unsolvable?
Half of all scrambles are mathematically impossible to solve; we use solvable ones.
What is the best solving method?
Row-by-row, then column-by-column, from the top-left.
How do I avoid undoing progress?
Treat solved rows as fixed and never slide tiles out of them.
Is there a trick for the last two tiles?
Position them together, then rotate them into place with a corner maneuver.
Can I use the keyboard?
Arrow keys typically move the blank in the opposite direction.
How many moves is optimal?
Up to 80 for the hardest scrambles.
Where can I play 15-Puzzle for free?
Right on this page — 15-Puzzle is embedded above, free, legal, and with no download or sign-up. Play with your keyboard on desktop or touch controls on mobile. Your best score is saved in your browser, so it's still there next time. Every game here is original or open-source, with links that stay valid.