a small maze with a change of direction playable prototype
Switchback Foundry
Find the exit. You can go forward, or turn and step.
The catch: you can only turn one way at a time.
01 The maze
original puzzleMake your way out
0 movesTurn relative to your arrow, then step one square. You cannot turn in place.
You found your way. The next challenge is up to you.
Follow the changing state
Explore the switch optional
change one thing
What do you expect?
Imagine the switch at becomes ordinary floor. The passage stays open, but entering it no longer changes your turn rule. Could you still reach the exit?
Make a prediction, then try the changed maze or check your answer.
How was this checked?
Trying the floor version starts a fresh run. Checking your prediction leaves your run in place.
Click or Tab to the maze for keys: F / ↑ forward, T / Space turn, Z undo, R reset.
A switch flips your allowed turn each time you enter it. The new rule stays with you.
Read the board as text
Coordinates use column letters and row numbers. # wall · floor ◆ switch O start E exit. Your current position and available actions are described in the play panel.
A closer look at the way home
A place in this puzzle has three parts: square, heading, and allowed turn. Come back facing another way, or allowed to turn the other way, and a route that was closed can open.
That is why a familiar square can become useful again. The route you take to a switch also determines the direction you face when its rule takes effect.
The local solver follows the same two moves you do, comparing complete states. You can ask it to check a prediction or reveal a route; it all happens in your browser.