THE PLAYBOOK · GYHUAXIANG
How to play Dots and Boxes
Choose a round of Dots and Boxes and settle into its rules. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Look at what changes after your first action. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Make the controls familiar
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Refer to the controls when needed.
Your goal
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
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. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Choose a deliberate next step.
Watch out for this
Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again. Check the rule before repeating the action. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Common questions
On this playing page, what is the goal of Dots and Boxes?
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.
For my first round, how do I control Dots and Boxes?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Dots and Boxes?
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.
While reading the Guide, what format does Dots and Boxes offer?
Keep this in mind: 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.
