How to play Dots and Boxes
A shared little challenge, with clear rules for both of you.
Connect neighboring dots, complete little squares and take an extra turn when you close a box. A calm two-player strategy game.
Play together →How to play Dots and Boxes
- 01
Draw one unused horizontal or vertical edge between dots.
- 02
Complete the fourth side of a square to claim it.
- 03
Closing one or two squares gives you another turn.
- 04
When every square is filled, compare the totals.
Dots and Boxes: player questions
Can I draw diagonally?
No. Only horizontal and vertical edges between neighboring dots are available.
Who owns a completed square?
The player who draws its final missing edge claims the square. Earlier edges may belong to either player.
Why did my turn continue?
Completing a square earns another turn. You may close a whole chain before the turn changes.
Can one line complete two squares?
Yes. A shared final edge may close both neighboring squares and earns both points.
What makes a third side risky?
It may let your partner complete that square on the next move. Sometimes a chain makes accepting that risk worthwhile.
How large is the board?
Easy has 3×3 squares, medium 4×4 and hard 5×5.
What happens if we tap the same line?
A filled line cannot be drawn again. The room accepts only a valid current-turn move.
When does the round finish?
After every square has an owner. Equal totals are a draw; both players can choose a rematch.
Can we play on different devices?
Yes. Create a private room and send its invitation to one partner. Each player controls their own seat. Reloading this browser can restore its saved player key.
What happens to a private room?
Access expires 48 hours after creation. Expired room data is scheduled for automatic deletion. The creator can close the room sooner. Same-device games save only in this browser.