THE PLAYBOOK · DOORSL
The Dots and Boxes playbook
Choose a round of Dots and Boxes and settle into its rules. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Look at what changes after your first action. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Try a more deliberate round
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Refer to the controls when needed.
The goal to keep in mind
Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Review the board or playing area as it changes.
The order of play
- 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.
Choosing and moving on screen
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
An example to follow
Drawing the fourth edge of a small square claims that box. Keep your turn after closing a box; otherwise the other player moves next. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Keep the controls nearby.
Watch out for this
Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
If you are unsure
Before I begin, what is the goal of Dots and Boxes?
The key detail is this: Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.
For my first round, how do I control Dots and Boxes?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
When I return, what example helps explain Dots and Boxes?
Keep this in mind: Drawing the fourth edge of a small square claims that box. Keep your turn after closing a box; otherwise the other player moves next.
As a new player, what should I watch out for in Dots and Boxes?
The key detail is this: Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again.
On this playing page, 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.
As a new player, which play mode does Dots and Boxes use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
