How to Play Dots and Boxes

THE PLAYBOOK · QTHCC

How to play Dots and Boxes

QTHCC presents Dots and Boxes with a practical playbook rather than a download screen. Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Read the learn from a completed round note before you begin.

Learn from a completed round

Finish a round where possible, then identify one decision you would change. Revisit the example or mistake section for a focused second attempt.

Your goal

Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete.

Step by step

1. Select an unfilled edge between adjacent dots.
2. Take turns while no box is completed.
3. Completing one or two boxes in a move earns another turn.
4. Once the board is full, compare the box totals.

Controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

A useful example

An edge shared by two nearly complete boxes can capture both boxes in one move.

Watch out for this

Closing a box does not end your turn; you must draw again.

Common questions