THE PLAYBOOK · ZXZXMR
How to play Dots and Boxes
Bring your attention to one round of Dots and Boxes. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.
Make the controls familiar
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your goal
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Take a moment to understand the current position.
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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Look at the feedback after the action.
A useful example
An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Read the matching step again.
Watch out for this
Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again. Check the rule before repeating the action. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Common questions
On this playing page, what is the goal of Dots and Boxes?
The key detail is this: Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Dots and Boxes?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
On this playing page, what example helps explain Dots and Boxes?
Here is the relevant explanation: An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Dots and Boxes?
Keep this in mind: Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again.
What format does Dots and Boxes offer?
For clarity: 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?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.