Tic-tac-toe online
Mark three squares in a row before your opponent does. Play with a friend on the same device or against the computer.
How do you play tic-tac-toe?
Tic-tac-toe is a game for two players on a grid of nine squares. One draws X, the other draws a circle, one mark per turn. The first to line up three marks across, down or diagonally wins; a full grid with no line is a draw. Here you play with a friend on one device or against the computer.
How to play
- Blue goes first and draws an X in any empty square.
- Pink answers with a circle in another empty square.
- Players take turns, one mark at a time.
- The first to line up three of their marks across, down or diagonally wins.
- If all nine squares are filled with no line, the game is a draw.
Tips to play better
- The center square is part of four lines, which makes it the best opening.
- Each corner is part of three lines; each side square, only two.
- Before attacking, check whether your opponent already has two in a row and block it.
- Making two threats at once wins the game, because only one can be blocked.
Frequently asked questions
Can you always win at tic-tac-toe?
No. When both players make no mistakes, the game always ends in a draw. A win comes from an opponent's mistake.
Does the first player have an advantage?
The first player has more ways to win, but cannot force a win against correct defense.
Do I need to install anything?
No. The game runs right in your phone or computer browser, with no sign-up.
