THE PLAYBOOK · SYCX2Z
How to play Tic-Tac-Toe
Start Tic-Tac-Toe by looking at the playing area and its controls. Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Look at what changes after your first action.
Build a steady rhythm
Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Keep the objective visible.
Your goal
Complete a row, column or diagonal of three marks. If the board fills without a line, the round is a draw. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. The example below illustrates a decision.
Step by step
- Player 1 places a cross in an empty cell.
- Player 2 places a circle in another empty cell.
- Take turns, watching both your winning opportunities and the opponent’s threats.
- The board stops accepting moves when a player wins or the game is drawn.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. A new-round button replaces the current round.
A useful example
Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Take a moment to compare.
Watch out for this
You cannot replace a mark that is already on the board. Compare the situation with the worked example. 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.
Common questions
For this browser game, 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.
As a new player, how do I control Tic-Tac-Toe?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
When I return, what example helps explain Tic-Tac-Toe?
Here is the relevant explanation: Two crosses in the top row threaten a win in the remaining top-row cell.
While reading the Guide, 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.
For this browser game, which play mode does Tic-Tac-Toe use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.