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RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Tic-Tac-Toe

Play Tic-Tac-Toe ↗

Game guide · GZFDWZ

Tic-Tac-Toe: instructions and practice

Open Tic-Tac-Toe, check the instructions and begin a round. 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. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Build familiarity through play

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Make the next step deliberately.

Aim for this result

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. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

Start here and follow along

  1. Player 1 places a cross in an empty cell.
  2. Player 2 places a circle in another empty cell.
  3. Take turns, watching both your winning opportunities and the opponent’s threats.
  4. The board stops accepting moves when a player wins or the game is drawn.

How your actions work

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.

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. Keep the controls nearby.

Pay attention to this rule

You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

If you are unsure

While learning, 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.

For my first round, how do I control Tic-Tac-Toe?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

On this playing page, what example helps explain Tic-Tac-Toe?

For clarity: Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell.

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.

When I return, what format does Tic-Tac-Toe offer?

Here is the relevant explanation: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.

When I return, 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.

For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Tic-Tac-Toe?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For my first round, how can I find Tic-Tac-Toe again?

Keep this in mind: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

For a quick reminder, how do I report an issue with Tic-Tac-Toe?

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.

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