About This Tic Tac Toe Game
Tic Tac Toe is a classic game played on a 3×3 grid. Two players take turns. One plays X and the other plays O. The first to place three marks in a row wins.
On GamesJoy, you can play right in your browser. Nothing to download. You can play alone against the AI or with a friend on the same device.
Game Modes
1 Player (vs AI)
You play as X. The computer plays as O. Use this mode to practice and test your skills.
2 Players
Two people play on the same screen. Player X goes first, then Player O. Take turns clicking or tapping.
How to Play Tic Tac Toe
- Choose a mode: 1 Player (vs AI) or 2 Players.
- Player X always starts. The screen shows whose turn it is.
- Click or tap any empty square to place your mark.
- Players take turns until someone wins or the board is full.
- Press Restart Game to start a new round.
The scoreboard at the top tracks wins for each player.
Rules of Tic Tac Toe
- The board has 9 squares in a 3×3 grid.
- Players must take turns. You cannot play twice in a row.
- You can only place a mark in an empty square.
- Marks cannot be moved or removed once placed.
How to Win
Get three of your marks in a straight line. The line can be:
- Horizontal: any of the 3 rows
- Vertical: any of the 3 columns
- Diagonal: either of the 2 diagonals
There are 8 possible winning lines in total.
What Is a Draw?
If all 9 squares are filled and nobody has three in a row, the game is a draw.
Tic Tac Toe Strategy and Tips
Best Opening Moves
- Corner: The strongest first move. It gives your opponent the most chances to make a mistake.
- Center: Also a strong choice. It is part of four winning lines.
- Edge: The weakest opening. Avoid it if you can.
If You Play Second
- If X takes the center, take a corner.
- If X takes a corner, take the center.
Key Tips
- Block first. If your opponent has two in a row, block the third square right away.
- Win when you can. If you have two in a row, complete the line.
- Create a fork. A fork is a move that makes two winning threats at once. Your opponent can only block one.
- Watch for forks. Stop your opponent from building one.
Can You Beat the AI?
Tic Tac Toe is a “solved” game. With perfect play from both sides, it always ends in a draw.
So if the AI plays well, your best result is a draw. You win only if the AI makes a mistake. Use the tips above to set traps and avoid mistakes of your own.
Why Tic Tac Toe Is Worth Playing
- Easy to learn. You can understand the rules in under a minute.
- Quick rounds. Most games last less than a minute.
- Builds planning skills. You must think about your move and your opponent’s next move.
- Fun for all ages. Kids and adults can play together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who goes first in Tic Tac Toe?
Player X always goes first on this page.
Can I play Tic Tac Toe with a friend?
Yes. Select 2 Players and take turns on the same device.
Can I win against the AI every time?
No. The game is a draw with perfect play. You can only win if the AI makes a mistake.
How many ways can you win?
There are 8 winning lines: 3 rows, 3 columns, and 2 diagonals.
What is the best first move?
A corner square is considered the best opening. The center is also strong.
How do I start a new game?
Press the Restart Game button below the board.
Does Tic Tac Toe have another name?
Yes. It is also called Noughts and Crosses in the UK and some other countries.