How to Play Space Waves

One button, two directions. Here is what you need to know before your first run.

Controls

Device	Go up	Go down	Pause
Computer	Hold left mouse button, Space or W	Release	P
Phone / tablet	Hold the screen	Release	-

How the wave movement works

The arrow only ever moves at two angles: up or down. It does not float and it does not slow down. Holding the button sends it up, releasing sends it down, and the speed stays the same either way. When you want to go straight through a long flat corridor, you tap quickly so the arrow zigzags in a tight line that averages out to flat.

One detail new players miss: gliding only takes you downward. If a slope is coming that climbs, you have to be moving up before it arrives, because letting go will never carry you up it.

Your first three levels

Do the tutorial. It takes a couple of minutes and shows the walls, gears and spikes before they can hurt your progress.
Pick a green level. Green levels have wider space and gentler angles, so you can build a rhythm without panic.
Watch the crash percentage. It tells you how far you got. If you died at 70 percent, you know the first 70 percent is solid and the problem is one specific section.

Reading obstacles

Walls and slopes: climb early, descend late.
Spinning gears: stay low and pass beneath instead of trying to hop over.
Spikes between ceiling and floor: tap in short bursts and keep your zigzag narrow.

Playing on mobile

Turn your phone sideways first. The game is built for landscape, and portrait leaves you with a tiny play area. Keep your thumb resting on the screen so you are not hunting for the right spot every time.

Ready to play? Head back to the game page, or read the tips if you keep getting stuck.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use the keyboard instead of the mouse?

Yes. Space and W do the same thing as holding the left mouse button. Many players prefer Space because it avoids hand cramps during long runs.

Is there a tutorial?

Yes, the game has a short tutorial that teaches the hold-to-climb, release-to-drop idea. It is worth doing once even if you think you know it.

Why do I crash right after a gap?

Usually because you started the next turn too late. The arrow needs a moment to change direction, so the move has to begin before the obstacle appears to line up.

Does it work with a controller?

We have not seen a controller guide from the developer, so the safe answer is: use mouse, keyboard or touch.