Skip to content
JSYRSD

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Sokoban

Play Sokoban ↗

Game guide · JSYRSD

Sokoban: instructions and practice

Open Sokoban, check the instructions and begin a round. Push every crate onto a target. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. 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.

Take a closer look while playing

Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Make the next step deliberately.

The objective of a round

Push every crate onto a target. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

The playing sequence

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

How to interact with the game

Arrow keys or direction buttons. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.

An example before you play

A crate in a non-target corner cannot be recovered by pulling. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Notice the change in the playing area.

Notice this detail

Consider the player’s access behind crates. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

More answers before you play

For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Sokoban?

Keep this in mind: Push every crate onto a target.

Before I begin, how do I control Sokoban?

Arrow keys or direction buttons.

What example helps explain Sokoban?

Here is the relevant explanation: A crate in a non-target corner cannot be recovered by pulling.

While learning, what should I watch out for in Sokoban?

Here is the relevant explanation: Consider the player’s access behind crates.

What format does Sokoban offer?

The key detail is this: 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.

For this browser game, which play mode does Sokoban use?

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

When I return, where should I start with Sokoban?

Keep this in mind: Move through empty floor.

As a new player, do I need an account or a payment for Sokoban?

The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

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.

For my first round, how do I report an issue with Sokoban?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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.

Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)