THE PLAYBOOK · YUNQITEA
Find your footing in Dots and Boxes
Read the aim of Dots and Boxes, then make your first move. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Take a closer look while playing
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Make the next step deliberately.
What the game asks you to do
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.
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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
Put the rules into context
An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Keep the game’s format in mind.
An important reminder
Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Questions that come up during play
For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Dots and Boxes?
Here is the relevant explanation: Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.
While learning, how do I control Dots and Boxes?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, what example helps explain Dots and Boxes?
Drawing the fourth edge of a small square claims that box. Keep your turn after closing a box; otherwise the other player moves next.
While learning, what should I watch out for in Dots and Boxes?
For clarity: Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again.
While learning, what format does Dots and Boxes offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
While learning, which play mode does Dots and Boxes use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.