Dots & Boxes
Take turns joining dots — complete a box’s fourth side to claim it and move again.
About the game
Dots & Boxes is a classic pencil-and-paper strategy game: complete a box to claim it and earn another turn. Simple at first, the endgame becomes a battle over who must hand over boxes first.
How to play
- Players take turns drawing a horizontal or vertical line between adjacent dots.
- Drawing a box’s fourth side claims it (+10) and you must move again.
- When all 25 boxes are claimed, the player with more wins: 100 + 10 × margin.
- A loss ends the run; the computer moves first every other game.
Controls
Tap between two adjacent dots to draw a line.
Tips for a high score
- Avoid drawing a box’s third side — it gifts the box.
- Late in the game, sacrifice short chains to win long ones.
- Count the remaining safe lines to see who’ll be forced to give first.
FAQ
- How do you play Dots & Boxes?
- Players take turns drawing a horizontal or vertical line between adjacent dots. Drawing a box’s fourth side claims it (+10) and you must move again. When all 25 boxes are claimed, the player with more wins: 100 + 10 × margin. A loss ends the run; the computer moves first every other game.
- What are the controls?
- Tap between two adjacent dots to draw a line.
- Any tips for Dots & Boxes?
- Avoid drawing a box’s third side — it gifts the box. Late in the game, sacrifice short chains to win long ones. Count the remaining safe lines to see who’ll be forced to give first.
- Do I need to download or sign up?
- No. Dots & Boxes runs in your browser on phone or desktop for free. Your best score is saved locally in your browser.