Classic 3×3
The standard fast mode with the familiar 3-in-a-row target.
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Overview 
Tic-tac-toe
1-2 players · 1-3 min per session
On 3×3 boards, connect 3 of your marks; on 5×5 boards, connect 4 in a row, column, or diagonal first.
Board GameStrategyTwo Player
Goal & Core Rules
On 3×3 boards, connect 3 of your marks; on 5×5 boards, connect 4 in a row, column, or diagonal first.
- Players alternate placing X and O in empty cells.
- 3×3 boards use a 3-in-a-row win condition, while 5×5 boards use 4 in a row.
- If the board fills without a winner, the game ends in a draw.
- The New Game menu lets you switch between two-player, vs AI, and computer-vs-computer modes.
Extended 5×5
A larger board with a 4-in-a-row target, making fork defense and tempo more important.
Controls
Mouse
- Click: place your mark in an empty cell
- Top menu: restart, open a new mode, or read help
Keyboard
- There are currently no dedicated keyboard shortcuts.
Touch
- Tap: place your mark in an empty cell
- Top menu button: open help, switch modes, or return to the hub
- In AI modes, wait briefly after your move for the computer reply.
Beginner Tips
- Take the center if you can; it participates in the most winning lines.
- After center, corners are usually stronger than edges.
- Block an immediate threat before trying to build your own attack.
Advanced Tips
- Look for forks: positions that create two winning threats at once.
- Force defensive replies and avoid moves that allow the opponent to fork.
- On 5×5 / connect-4 mode, central lanes and consecutive threats matter even more.
Origins & History
Tic-tac-toe’s three-in-a-row format has ancient roots: Wikipedia traces similar boards to ancient Egypt and notes a Roman-era variant called terni lapilli. The modern naming evolved later, with “noughts and crosses” appearing in print in the 19th century, and the game becoming a classic early example in computing (such as the 1952 OXO program).
Timeline
- 1858 A print reference to “noughts and crosses” (a common British name) appeared.
- 1952 OXO (Noughts and Crosses) was created for the EDSAC computer as an early video game example.
FAQ
Is tic-tac-toe solved?
The standard 3×3 rules are a classic solved game: perfect play from both sides leads to a draw.
Does the 5×5 mode use the same strategy?
The same basics still help, but 4-in-a-row on a larger board puts more weight on long threats and tempo.
How do I play on mobile?
Just tap a cell to move. The top menu gives quick access to restart, help, and other modes.