THE PLAYBOOK · RUIQIWJ
How to play Tic-Tac-Toe
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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Try a deliberate move
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Keep the objective visible.
Your goal
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. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
Step by step
- 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.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
A useful example
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. Take a moment to compare.
Watch out for this
You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.
Common questions
When I return, what is the goal of Tic-Tac-Toe?
For clarity: Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Tic-Tac-Toe?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
As a new player, what example helps explain Tic-Tac-Toe?
Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell.
When I return, what should I watch out for in Tic-Tac-Toe?
You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board.
For this browser game, 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?
The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.