Well, you sure *can* get trapped if you don't think ahead (that's a part of the game), but the board at its beginning is guaranteed to be solvable. Try not to leave unconnectable blocks behind, as you should play at all times, and then you should be able to get out of the Phantom-trouble when it comes along. With a little bit of practice you'll be able to solve first couple of levels without the Phantom even placing his first figure, and later on you'll at least be able to clear enough before the first gray figure not to cause any alarms. And then, after about 20th level, things get tough