How to Play Sokoban

THE PLAYBOOK · SHIDIAO001

How to play 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. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Use the example below to understand a decision.

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.

Build a steady rhythm

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. Keep the objective visible.

Your goal

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

Step by step

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.

Controls

Arrow keys or direction buttons. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

A useful example

A crate in a non-target corner cannot be recovered by pulling. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Read the matching step again.

Watch out for this

Consider the player’s access behind crates. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Common questions