How to play Hex
- Choose who to play against: the computer (with level and who starts) or two players on the same device. Blue moves first.
- In turns, each player places a stone of their color on a free cell. Stones never move and are never removed.
- Blue has to form an unbroken chain of neighboring stones between the left and right sides; red, between the top and bottom.
- The first to complete their chain wins, and the path is highlighted. In Hex there is never a draw.
Hex strategy and the pie rule
The cells in the center are the most powerful because they let you head in any direction. A good idea is to leave a “bridge” gap: two stones separated by two free cells that are both neighbors of each stone are connected, because if your opponent takes one, you complete with the other. Always think about blocking the opponent and connecting your own stones with the same move.
Since moving first is a big advantage, there is the pie rule: after the first stone, the second player may swap sides and take it (on the board it becomes a stone of their color, on the symmetric cell). This way the player who starts has to choose a first move that is neither too strong nor too weak. You can turn it on in “Rules and options”.
Things to keep in mind
- The medium and hard levels think using random simulations for a short while (up to 0.6 and 1.6 seconds per move); on very slow phones you may notice a pause, but the screen does not freeze.
- Undo against the computer takes back your move and its move; with two players, it undoes the last move. A finished game cannot be undone.
- Scoreboards and settings are saved only in this browser. No game is sent to any server.
Frequently asked questions
How do you win at Hex?
By joining your two sides with a continuous chain of neighboring stones: blue from left to right and red from top to bottom. Each cell touches six neighbors, so chains can run diagonally, but only in the two directions the board shows.
Can it end in a draw?
No. When the board is full, there is always exactly one winner: if you completely block your opponent, it is because you have already formed your own path.
What is the pie rule?
A way to balance the advantage of starting. After the first move, the second player chooses between playing on normally or swapping sides and taking that stone. That is why whoever opens should choose a balanced cell.
How does the computer play?
The easy level plays almost at random, preferring the center. The medium and hard levels simulate thousands of random games from each possible move and choose the one that won most often; hard thinks longer and values bridges.
Can I play with the keyboard?
Yes. Use Tab to reach the board, the arrow keys move the focus between cells and Enter or the space bar place the stone.