How to Play Tic Tac Toe

Tic Tac Toe (also known as Noughts and Crosses) is perhaps the world’s most recognizable game. Simple enough for children to learn in minutes, yet strategic enough to engage players of all ages.

Quick Overview

Players: 2
Equipment: 3x3 grid and markers (X and O)
Goal: Get three of your symbols in a row (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally)
Time: 2-5 minutes per game

How to Play

Draw a 3x3 grid
Player 1 uses X, Player 2 uses O
Players take turns placing their symbol in an empty square
First to get 3 in a row wins
If the grid fills with no winner, it’s a tie

Basic Strategy

Take the center if it’s available
Block your opponent from getting 3 in a row
Create multiple threats when possible
Think ahead - consider your opponent’s next move

Advanced Tips

Corner Strategy: After taking center, aim for corners
Fork Creation: Set up multiple ways to win simultaneously
Pattern Recognition: Learn common winning sequences

Winning Patterns

There are 8 ways to win in Tic Tac Toe:

3 horizontal rows
3 vertical columns
2 diagonal lines

With perfect play, every game should end in a tie. But most games have mistakes that create winning opportunities!