THE PLAYBOOK · GZDINGZAN
Tic-Tac-Toe: rules and examples
Start Tic-Tac-Toe by looking at the playing area and its controls. 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. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
One thing to notice as you play
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Keep the objective visible.
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. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Take a moment to understand the current position.
The playing sequence
- 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.
Getting comfortable with the controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
Put the rules into context
Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Verify the rule before continuing.
A common point of confusion
You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board. Check the rule before repeating the action. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.
Questions that come up during play
As a new player, what is the goal of Tic-Tac-Toe?
Keep this in mind: Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw.
For my first round, how do I control Tic-Tac-Toe?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
As a new player, what example helps explain Tic-Tac-Toe?
Here is the relevant explanation: Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell.
As a new player, what should I watch out for in Tic-Tac-Toe?
The key detail is this: You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board.
For my first round, what format does Tic-Tac-Toe offer?
For clarity: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For this browser game, 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.
