How to Play Sokoban

THE PLAYBOOK · YSXBH

An introduction to playing Sokoban

Try Sokoban at your own pace and keep its objective in view. 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.

Something to practise

Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Keep the objective visible.

The challenge in front of you

Push every crate onto a target. Read that aim before choosing your first action. The example below illustrates a decision.

How to proceed

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.

Keyboard and screen controls

Arrow keys or direction buttons. Use the control method described here for this activity. A new-round button replaces the current round.

Work through an example

A crate in a non-target corner cannot be recovered by pulling. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Look for the relevant detail.

Watch out for this

Consider the player’s access behind crates. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round.

Answers about the rules and controls