How to Play Sokoban

Game guide · XINNINGBAO

Start Sokoban by looking at the playing area and its controls. Push every crate onto a target. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Push two crates onto their targets in compact 7×7 rooms. The starting layouts can be solved; an unhelpful push may still trap a crate.

Bring this focus to a round

Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Use the example to check your reasoning.

The purpose of your moves

Push every crate onto a target. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.

From the start of a round

Move through empty floor.
Push one crate into empty space.
Never pull or push two at once.
Undo a deadlock and continue.

The controls to know

Arrow keys or direction buttons. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.

See how the rules apply

A crate in a non-target corner cannot be recovered by pulling. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Notice the change in the playing area.

Watch out for this

Consider the player’s access behind crates. Compare the situation with the worked example. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Read these answers for extra help

On this playing page, what is the goal of Sokoban?

For clarity: Push every crate onto a target.

When I return, how do I control Sokoban?

Arrow keys or direction buttons.

While learning, what example helps explain Sokoban?

A crate in a non-target corner cannot be recovered by pulling.

When I return, what should I watch out for in Sokoban?

Keep this in mind: Consider the player’s access behind crates.

When I return, what format does Sokoban offer?

For clarity: Push two crates onto their targets in compact 7×7 rooms. The starting layouts can be solved; an unhelpful push may still trap a crate.

While reading the Guide, which play mode does Sokoban use?

Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Solo. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

While reading the Guide, where should I start with Sokoban?

The key detail is this: Move through empty floor.

For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Sokoban?

For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

While learning, how can I find Sokoban again?

Keep this in mind: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

While learning, how do I report an issue with Sokoban?

Keep this in mind: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.