THE PLAYBOOK · HONGYIWEN
How to play Dots and Boxes
Read the aim of Dots and Boxes, then make your first move. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Read before acting
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Keep the objective visible.
Your goal
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Keep the controls in easy reach.
Step by step
- Select an unfilled edge between adjacent dots.
- Take turns while no box is completed.
- Completing one or two boxes in a move earns another turn.
- Once the board is full, compare the box totals.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Check any mode label before starting.
A useful example
An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Take a moment to compare.
Watch out for this
Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again. Compare the situation with the worked example. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Common questions
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Dots and Boxes?
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.
For this browser game, how do I control Dots and Boxes?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
On this playing page, what example helps explain Dots and Boxes?
For clarity: An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move.
For my first round, what should I watch out for in Dots and Boxes?
Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again.
For a quick reminder, what format does Dots and Boxes offer?
Keep this in mind: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Before I begin, which play mode does Dots and Boxes use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
