Game guide · KSZXDJJ
The essentials of playing 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. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Try a more deliberate round
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.
The purpose of your moves
Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Keep the controls in easy reach.
Start here and follow along
- 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.
Choosing and moving on screen
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. A new-round button replaces the current round.
See the idea in action
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. Check the stated objective.
Where a round can go wrong
You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board. Compare the situation with the worked example. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Questions that come up during play
While reading the Guide, 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.
Before I begin, 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?
Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell.
While learning, what should I watch out for in Tic-Tac-Toe?
You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board.
On this playing page, 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.
While learning, where should I start with Tic-Tac-Toe?
The key detail is this: Player 1 places a cross in an empty cell.
While learning, do I need an account or a payment for Tic-Tac-Toe?
The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
As a new player, 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.
On this playing page, how do I report an issue with Tic-Tac-Toe?
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.