THE PLAYBOOK · GZCKKS
Read before your next round of Dots and Boxes
Bring your attention to one round of Dots and Boxes. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Something to practise
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your objective
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Check the rules when you are unsure.
Follow these playing steps
- 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.
Getting comfortable with the controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
A closer look at one 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. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Take a moment to compare.
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. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Further help with the game
When I return, what is the goal of Dots and Boxes?
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.
When I return, how do I control Dots and Boxes?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
When I return, what example helps explain Dots and Boxes?
Keep this in mind: Drawing the fourth edge of a small square claims that box. Keep your turn after closing a box; otherwise the other player moves next.
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.
When I return, 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.
Before I begin, which play mode does Dots and Boxes 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.