THE PLAYBOOK · XIAOANBA
How to play Dots and Boxes
Dots and Boxes gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
A useful comparison
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. The example below illustrates a decision.
Step by step
- Select an unfilled edge between adjacent dots.
- Take turns while no box is completed.
- Completing one or two boxes in a move earns another turn.
- Once the board is full, compare the box totals.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Check any mode label before starting.
A useful example
Drawing the fourth edge of a small square claims that box. Keep your turn after closing a box; otherwise the other player moves next. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Keep the game’s format in mind.
Watch out for this
Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. 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.
Common questions
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Dots and Boxes?
Here is the relevant explanation: Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Dots and Boxes?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Dots and Boxes?
Keep this in mind: An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Dots and Boxes?
Keep this in mind: Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again.
For this browser game, what format does Dots and Boxes 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.
On this playing page, which play mode does Dots and Boxes use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.