Game guide · MXZTJ
The essentials of playing Tic-Tac-Toe
Try Tic-Tac-Toe at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Something to practise
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Notice the feedback after each input.
What you need to achieve
Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Notice how the game responds to your input.
The order of play
- Player 1 places a cross in an empty cell.
- Player 2 places a circle in another empty cell.
- Take turns, watching both your winning opportunities and the opponent’s threats.
- The board stops accepting moves when a player wins or the game is drawn.
Your inputs
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
Follow the example
Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Check the stated objective.
Where a round can go wrong
You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board. Compare the situation with the worked example. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Questions that come up during play
Before I begin, what is the goal of Tic-Tac-Toe?
Here is the relevant explanation: Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw.
While learning, how do I control Tic-Tac-Toe?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
What example helps explain Tic-Tac-Toe?
The key detail is this: Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Tic-Tac-Toe?
Keep this in mind: You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board.
For my first round, what format does Tic-Tac-Toe offer?
For clarity: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
As a new player, which play mode does Tic-Tac-Toe use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
While reading the Guide, where should I start with Tic-Tac-Toe?
Keep this in mind: Player 1 places a cross in an empty cell.
As a new player, do I need an account or a payment for Tic-Tac-Toe?
The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
For this browser game, how can I find Tic-Tac-Toe again?
Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
While reading the Guide, how do I report an issue with Tic-Tac-Toe?
The key detail is this: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.