How to play Tic Tac Toe

The classic 3x3 strategy game. Get three in a row before your opponent does.

Rules

• The board is a 3x3 grid. Players take turns placing their mark.
• X always goes first, then O.
• Place a mark by clicking an empty square.
• The first player to get three of their marks in a row — horizontally, vertically, or diagonally — wins.
• If the board fills up with no winner, it's a draw.

Modes

• vs Computer — you are X, the computer is O. The computer uses a minimax strategy, so it will never lose; your best result is a draw.
• 2 Players — take turns on the same device with a friend.

Strategy tips

• Take the centre square when you can — it's part of the most winning lines.
• If your opponent has two in a row, block them immediately.
• Set up a "fork" — a position with two ways to win — to force a win.