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RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Tic-Tac-Toe

Play Tic-Tac-Toe ↗

Game guide · LYGXJD

The Tic-Tac-Toe playbook

Tic-Tac-Toe gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. 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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.

Take a closer look while playing

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Refer to the controls when needed.

What the game asks you to do

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. Review the board or playing area as it changes.

How to proceed

  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.

Keyboard and screen controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

A closer look at one 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. Keep the controls nearby.

Notice this detail

You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.

Questions about this game

When I return, what is the goal of Tic-Tac-Toe?

Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw.

On this playing page, how do I control Tic-Tac-Toe?

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.

When I return, 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 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 learning, where should I start with Tic-Tac-Toe?

The key detail is this: Player 1 places a cross in an empty cell.

Before I begin, 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.

Before I begin, 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.

While learning, how do I report an issue with Tic-Tac-Toe?

For clarity: 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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