Game guide · 2COU99BJ
Tic-Tac-Toe: rules and examples
Tic-Tac-Toe gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw. Look at what changes after your first action. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Practice with a purpose
Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Make the next step deliberately.
What you are aiming for
Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
Making your moves
- Player 1 places a cross in an empty cell.
- Player 2 places a circle in another empty cell.
- Take turns, watching both your winning opportunities and the opponent’s threats.
- The board stops accepting moves when a player wins or the game is drawn.
Keyboard and screen controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
See the idea in action
Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Keep the game’s format in mind.
A common point of confusion
You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Answers about the rules and controls
On this playing page, what is the goal of Tic-Tac-Toe?
The key detail is this: Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw.
For this browser game, how do I control Tic-Tac-Toe?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For this browser game, what example helps explain Tic-Tac-Toe?
Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Tic-Tac-Toe?
Keep this in mind: You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board.
For my first round, what format does Tic-Tac-Toe offer?
The key detail is this: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
While reading the Guide, which play mode does Tic-Tac-Toe 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.
While reading the Guide, where should I start with Tic-Tac-Toe?
Player 1 places a cross in an empty cell.
Before I begin, do I need an account or a payment for Tic-Tac-Toe?
For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
On this playing page, how can I find Tic-Tac-Toe again?
Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
As a new player, how do I report an issue with Tic-Tac-Toe?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.