Dots and Boxes
Draw lines, close boxes, outscore the computer.
Your turn
How to play Dots and Boxes
Goal: Claim more boxes than your opponent.
- 1Take turns drawing one line between two dots.
- 2Draw the fourth side of a box to claim it.
- 3Claiming a box gives you another turn.
- 4Avoid drawing the third side of a box, or your opponent takes it.
On a computer
Click between two dots
On a phone
Tap between two dots
Play Dots and Boxes free. Connect dots, complete boxes and claim more squares than the computer or a friend.
About Dots and Boxes
Dots and Boxes is a classic pen and paper game. Players take turns drawing a line between two neighboring dots. Whoever draws the fourth side of a box claims it and must take another turn. When all lines are drawn, the player with more boxes wins.
The game was described in France in the late 1800s and has been played in classrooms and on napkins ever since. It looks simple, but it has deep strategy that mathematicians have written whole books about. Our free version uses a five by five box grid and lets you play the computer or a friend on one device.
Dots and Boxes is a fun way to practice thinking ahead, and a game usually takes five minutes or less on phone or desktop.
Many players are surprised that the winner is often decided near the end, when the board turns into long chains. Knowing when to sacrifice two boxes to keep control of the remaining chains is the key skill that separates beginners from strong players.
Dots and Boxes tips and strategy
- Early on, avoid drawing the third side of any box. That hands the box to your opponent.
- As the board fills, the game turns into long chains of boxes. Try to make your opponent open the first chain.
- Count chains near the end. Whoever is forced to open the long chains usually loses.
- When you take a chain, consider leaving the last two boxes for your opponent (a double cross) so they must open the next chain.
- Take every free box when the opponent has opened one, unless you are setting up that sacrifice.
- Against the computer, play safe early. It avoids giving away boxes too.
Dots and Boxes FAQ
Do you get another turn after making a box?
Yes. Completing a box earns it and gives you another move right away.
What is the main strategy in Dots and Boxes?
Avoid drawing the third side of boxes early, then control the chains of boxes so your opponent has to open them for you.
Can I play Dots and Boxes with a friend?
Yes. Choose 2 Players and take turns on the same screen.
How big is the board?
Our board has a five by five grid of boxes, which is six by six dots.
Is Dots and Boxes free?
Yes. Play free in your browser against the computer or a friend on the same device.