Noughts and crosses, the perfect quick duel — line up three in a row before your opponent blocks you.
👥 2 players⏱️ 1–3 min
Tic-Tac-Toe (noughts and crosses) is the quick two-player duel everyone learned as a kid: take turns marking a 3×3 grid and try to line up three of your symbol in a row. It's instant to learn and the ideal palate-cleanser between heavier games.
Play side by side on one phone or challenge a friend online on separate phones. A clean game between equals always ends in a draw — so the real fun is in the mind games and the rematch.
How to play
Players take turns placing their mark — X or O — on an empty square of the 3×3 grid.
X traditionally goes first.
The goal is to get three of your marks in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line.
Block your opponent when they have two in a row, or they'll complete the line on their next turn.
The first to make three in a row wins the round instantly.
If every square fills with no line, the round is a draw — reset and play again.
Tips & strategy
Take the centre square when you can; it sits on the most winning lines.
If the centre is taken, grab a corner — corners beat edges for creating threats.
Create a 'fork': a move that makes two winning threats at once, so your opponent can only block one.
Always block an opponent's two-in-a-row before pressing your own attack.
Frequently asked questions
Can you always win at Tic-Tac-Toe?
No. With perfect play from both sides the game is always a draw — winning requires your opponent to make a mistake.
Who goes first?
X moves first by convention, which is a slight advantage, so alternate who starts across rounds to keep it fair.
Can I play on the same phone?
Yes. Tic-Tac-Toe supports local pass-and-play on one device, or online play with a phone each.