Objective of the Game
The 15-Puzzle is a classic sliding puzzle that aims to arrange numbered tiles in a specific order, usually from 1 to 15, by sliding them within a 4x4 grid.
Game Materials
- A square grid with 16 spaces, of which 15 are numbered tiles. The 16th space is left blank to allow movements.
Game Rules
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Starting Arrangement: At the beginning of the game, the tiles are randomly arranged on the 4x4 board in such a way that at least one solution is achievable.
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Target Arrangement: The tiles must be sorted in order, beginning with the number 1 in the top left corner and ending with the blank space in the bottom right corner.
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Moving the Tiles: Any tile directly adjacent to the blank space can be moved into the blank space. This movement possibility includes tiles that are horizontally or vertically adjacent – not diagonally!
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Reversing Moves: There is no strict rule against reversing moves. Players can slide tiles back and forth in search of the solution.
Strategy and Tips
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Fix Edge Tiles: Work to get the first or even second row in place before focusing on the lower rows.
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Two-Tile Loop: A common technique is to create a loop of movements with two tiles to swap their positions with minimal disruption.
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Think Ahead: Plan several moves ahead to avoid locking tiles in place where they can no longer be moved.
The 15-Puzzle can also be played online, simplifying the game as shuffling and arrangement checking are handled automatically.
