Dots and Boxes

Play Dots and Boxes Online for Free

Dots and Boxes is the classic pen-and-paper game, now free online. Players take turns drawing a line between two dots. Close the fourth side of a box to claim it and take another turn. When all the boxes are filled, the player with the most wins. Play against the computer or a friend on the same device.

Developer: Coolmath Games  |  Genre: Puzzle, Board Game, 2 Player  |  Price: Free

This version is from Coolmath Games and keeps the simple rules that make the game a favourite in classrooms.

How to Play Dots and Boxes

1. Take turns drawing one line between two dots.
2. Close a box by drawing its fourth side.
3. Claimed boxes get your colour.
4. Close a box, play again.
5. Most boxes wins when the grid is full.

Controls

Action	PC / Chromebook	iPad / tablet
Draw a line	Mouse: left click	Tap

Simple Strategy

Avoid drawing the third side of a box, because it lets your opponent close it. Near the end of the game, long chains of boxes appear. The player who controls who gets those chains usually wins, so count carefully before each move.

A Classic Game

Dots and Boxes was first described in France more than a hundred years ago and has been played on school notebooks ever since. All you ever needed was a pencil and a friend, and now you do not even need the pencil.

Common Mistakes

The biggest mistake is giving away boxes early by drawing a third side without thinking. Another is grabbing every box you can at the end, even when it hands your opponent a longer chain. Sometimes it is smarter to give away two boxes to win a bigger chain later.

Tips for Dots and Boxes

• Never draw a third side unless you must.
• Count the chains near the end.
• Play the edges early on.
• Think one move ahead every turn.

Why Dots and Boxes Is So Fun

It is quick to learn but full of clever moments. Every line matters, and the end of the game, when chains of boxes fall, is always exciting. It is perfect for a fun match with a friend or family member.

Play on Any Device

Dots and Boxes runs in your browser on Windows, Mac, Chromebook and tablets, with nothing to download. Progress is saved automatically in your browser, so you can come back later and carry on. Short levels make it ideal for a quick break between homework or chores.

Great for the Classroom

Teachers love this game because it teaches planning, counting and fair play in just a few minutes. It is a perfect warm-up activity or reward at the end of a lesson.

Is Dots and Boxes Good for Kids?

Yes. It is a peaceful strategy game with no chat, great for logical thinking and taking turns. More advice for families is on our Information for Parents page. For independent age ratings and reviews of games, parents can also visit Common Sense Media.

Games Like Dots and Boxes

More board and puzzle games:

• Tic Tac Toe – the classic game of X and O.
• Connect 4 – drop discs and connect four.
• Master Checkers – classic checkers online.
• ludo-hero – roll the dice in classic Ludo.

Find more games like this in our Puzzle Games, 2 Player Games and Card & Board Games categories.

Dots and Boxes FAQ

Is Dots and Boxes free?

Yes. Play Dots and Boxes free on Kizoo Games.

Can two players play Dots and Boxes?

Yes, on the same device.

How do you win?

Claim more boxes than your opponent.

Do you get another turn after closing a box?

Yes.

Does it work on iPad?

Yes. Tap between dots.