How to Play Dots and Boxes

THE PLAYBOOK · SLTPPF

How to play Dots and Boxes

Dots and Boxes on SLTPPF is organised around a clear objective: Claim the most boxes when all nine boxes are complete. Begin with first-round orientation and use the playbook beside the game.

First-round orientation

Before playing, identify the objective and the input controls. Use your first round to learn what changes after a valid action.

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