THE PLAYBOOK · CD12372
Follow the steps for Dots and Boxes
Make Dots and Boxes your next activity in the game library. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Look at what changes after your first action. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Give this approach a try
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Use the example to check your reasoning.
What the game asks you to do
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Keep the controls in easy reach.
A walkthrough of the rules
- Select an unfilled edge between adjacent dots.
- Take turns while no box is completed.
- Completing one or two boxes in a move earns another turn.
- Once the board is full, compare the box totals.
The controls to know
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
See the idea in action
An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Notice the change in the playing area.
Check this before moving on
Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again. Compare the situation with the worked example. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
If you are unsure
For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Dots and Boxes?
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.
When I return, how do I control Dots and Boxes?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For this browser game, what example helps explain Dots and Boxes?
Drawing the fourth edge of a small square claims that box. Keep your turn after closing a box; otherwise the other player moves next.
For my first round, what should I watch out for in Dots and Boxes?
For clarity: Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again.
On this playing page, what format does Dots and Boxes offer?
Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
While learning, which play mode does Dots and Boxes use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.