Dots & Boxes
Close the most boxes to win this pencil-and-paper classic.
๐ฅ 1-2 playersPlay with a friend
Opening a sessionโฆ
Connectingโฆ Refreshing this page starts a new game and a new code.
About Dots & Boxes
Free online Dots and Boxes. Draw lines to complete boxes; the player who owns the most boxes wins. Play two players or against the AI on 3x3, 4x4, or 5x5 grids.
Dots and Boxes is a classic pencil-and-paper strategy game first published in the 1880s. The trick to winning is the 'chain rule' - deliberately sacrificing small chains of boxes early so you can scoop up the big chains later. Master the double-cross move and you'll beat almost anyone. Two players share one device pass-and-play style, the AI stands in when you're alone - and over a video call, one player shares the board and draws the lines both of them call out.
Frequently asked questions
How do you win Dots and Boxes?๏ผ
Complete more boxes than your opponent. You claim a box by drawing its fourth side, and completing a box lets you move again - so long chains can swing the whole game.
Why did I just give my opponent lots of boxes?๏ผ
Drawing the third side of a box lets the next player complete it. Skilled players avoid this until forced, then give away the smallest chain possible.
Can I change the board size?๏ผ
Yes - pick 3x3 for a quick game or 5x5 for a longer, more strategic match. You can switch any time and it starts a fresh board.
Is it free?๏ผ
Yes, completely free with no sign-up and no downloads. It works on any phone, tablet, or computer - across the table, or across a video call with one player sharing the board on screen.
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