How to play dots and boxes
- Choose your opponent: the computer (pick a level and who goes first) or a friend on the same device.
- Under "Rules and options" pick the size: 3×3, 4×4 or 5×5 boxes.
- On your turn, tap the space between two dots to draw a line. You take turns drawing one line at a time.
- Whoever draws the fourth side of a box keeps it and goes again. At the end, the player who closed more boxes wins.
Dots and boxes strategy
It looks simple, but there is a lot of strategy. Early on, avoid drawing the third side of a box, because you hand the box to your opponent. When there are no safe lines left, someone has to give away boxes: that is where the game is decided.
Boxes form chains. An expert sacrifices the last two boxes of a chain to force the opponent to open the next one and keep control. Try that trick against the computer on the hard level, which calculates the endgame in depth.
Everything is calculated on your device, with nothing sent to any server; only your scores and settings are saved.
Good to know
- 5×5 games are long: the hard computer is stronger in the endgame than at the start.
- There is no time limit. If you leave the page, the game in progress is lost.
- Scores and settings are saved only in this browser.
Frequently asked questions
How do you play dots and boxes?
Players take turns drawing a line between two neighboring dots. Whoever completes a box with their line keeps it and plays again. The player with the most boxes at the end wins.
Why do I play again when I close a box?
It's the rule of the game: closing a box earns another turn. That's why it pays to think about how many boxes you hand your opponent before drawing a line.
Which board size should I pick?
The 3×3 boxes board is quick and good for starting out. The 5×5 board is longer and has more strategy.
Can I play with a friend on the same phone?
Yes. Choose the "2 players" mode and take turns tapping the lines.
Is it free? Do I need to install anything?
It's free, needs no sign-up and runs right in your browser.