THE PLAYBOOK · BLCQC
A practical guide to Dots and Boxes
Take a moment with Dots and Boxes before moving to another game. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Look at what changes after your first action. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Look at what changes after your first action.
Bring this focus to a round
Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules. Refer to the controls when needed.
Your goal
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Check the rules when you are unsure.
Follow these playing steps
- 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.
Getting comfortable with the controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
Put the rules into context
An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Look for the relevant detail.
A useful caution
Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.
Read these answers for extra help
For my first round, what is the goal of Dots and Boxes?
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.
On this playing page, how do I control Dots and Boxes?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, what example helps explain Dots and Boxes?
For clarity: 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 a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Dots and Boxes?
Here is the relevant explanation: Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again.
For my first round, 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 reading the Guide, which play mode does Dots and Boxes use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.