THE PLAYBOOK · NMGAFT
How to play Dots and Boxes
Make Dots and Boxes your next activity in the game library. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Look at what changes after your first action. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
A careful first round
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Refer to the controls when needed.
Your goal
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Keep the controls in easy reach.
Step by step
- 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.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
A useful example
An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Verify the rule before continuing.
Watch out for this
Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. 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.
Common questions
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Dots and Boxes?
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.
For my first round, how do I control Dots and Boxes?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
What example helps explain Dots and Boxes?
The key detail is this: An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move.
As a new player, 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?
Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Before I begin, 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.