Dots and Boxes

A blank field of dots waits for the first line. In Dots and Boxes, two or more players claim tiny 1x1 squares by drawing between neighboring points on paper or on the table grid, with line size and dot layouts changing through several available variations. The match traces back to 19th-century mathematician Edouard Lucas and also appears under names like Dots Game, Boxes, Sticks, Squares, and Grid of Dots. New players often grab the first box available. Experienced opponents hold back, setting up a double cross that hands over a short chain and forces a longer chain back on the next move.

How to play?

Choose the player count, then assign each seat to a person or computer. In the table version, player 1 moves first. Draw one horizontal or vertical line between two adjacent dots on each move. When the fourth side closes a square, claim one point and take another move. After the grid fills with completed boxes, compare scores and award the win to the highest total. If the top score matches, the round ends in a tie. Avoid laying down lines that leave a long chain ready for an opponent, and bait them into giving one back.