JoinPal
Tic-tac-toe rules
Tic-tac-toe is a quick game for two players, X and O, who take turns marking squares on a grid. On JoinPal you can play the classic 3 × 3 board or a bigger 5 × 5 board.
Taking turns
X always makes the first move. The players then take turns placing their mark in any empty square. A mark cannot be moved or removed.
How to win
- On the 3 × 3 board: get three of your marks in a row.
- On the 5 × 5 board: get four of your marks in a row.
A row can run across, down or diagonally. The first player to complete one wins the round.
Draws
If every square is filled and nobody has a line, the round is a draw.
Rematches
After a round with a friend, either player can ask for a rematch, and the marks swap, so the other player starts as X.
Tips for beginners
On 3 × 3, starting in the centre or a corner gives the most chances. Always check whether your opponent can complete a line on the next move, and block it. Two threats at once usually win the game.