Dots And Boxes
Introducing Dots And Boxes
Dots and Boxes is a timeless, enjoyable, and straightforward pen-and-paper game designed for two or more players. The game commences with an empty grid composed of dots, with various grid sizes available to choose from in Gametable's Dots and Boxes.
Gameplay Overview
Beginning the Game
Typically, players decide who goes first by flipping a coin or engaging in a game of Rock-Paper-Scissors. In Gametable's Tabletop Dots and Boxes, Player 1 assumes the starting position.
Connect the Dots
Players take turns connecting two unjoined dots positioned horizontally or vertically adjacent to each other. This action creates a line on the grid.
When a player successfully completes the fourth side of a 1x1 box by connecting the final line, they earn one point. Additionally, the player who scores this point is granted another turn to continue making connections.
End of the Game
The game reaches its conclusion when all lines on the grid have been drawn, and all available boxes have been claimed. The player with the most points emerges as the winner. In cases where multiple players share the highest score, the game ends in a tie.
Strategic Considerations
While many novice players immediately claim a box whenever possible, expert players adopt a more strategic approach. They carefully consider the possibility of double-crossing their opponents. A double cross occurs when a player willingly gives their opponent a short chain of boxes, forcing them into a situation where they must create a long chain on their next turn, thereby benefitting the player who set up the double cross. Mastering the art of the double cross is often the key to victory in Dots and Boxes.
How to play Dots And Boxes