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How to play Dots and Boxes
Dots and Boxes is a game of choosing edges between neighboring dots. Closing the fourth side of a box claims it for you and earns another turn. When every edge has been used, the player who owns more boxes wins.
- You are blue and start; the computer is gold. Select an unused horizontal or vertical edge between neighboring dots.
- Completing a box claims it and gives the same player another turn. One edge can claim two boxes.
- When every edge is used, the player with more boxes wins; equal totals draw.
Tips for your next round
- An edge that adds the third side of a box gives your opponent a possible capture. Look for safer edges before giving one away.
- Late in the game, boxes can form long chains. Count what the opponent can collect after your move, not just the first box.
You play blue and start against the gold computer. One edge may complete two boxes; equal final totals are a draw.
Play free in your browser without an account. Your moves save in this browser during regular rounds. Sign in if you want to sync progress across devices. Very long rounds may stay in the current tab.