THE PLAYBOOK · SHIDIAO001
How to play Tic-Tac-Toe
Start Tic-Tac-Toe by looking at the playing area and its controls. Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Read before acting
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Keep the controls in easy reach.
Step by step
- 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.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
A useful example
Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Choose a deliberate next step.
Watch out for this
You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board. A different version of the game may use a different rule. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Common questions
What is the goal of Tic-Tac-Toe?
For clarity: Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw.
As a new player, how do I control Tic-Tac-Toe?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
What example helps explain Tic-Tac-Toe?
For clarity: Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Tic-Tac-Toe?
Here is the relevant explanation: You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board.
For a quick reminder, 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.
For my first round, which play mode does Tic-Tac-Toe use?
The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.