How to play
Players take turns placing their mark — ✕ or ◯ — on a three-by-three board. The first to line up three marks in a row, column or diagonal wins. If all nine squares fill up with no line, the game is a draw. Click or tap any empty square to place your mark, and press "Play again" to start a new round. The starting player alternates each game.
The three levels
- Easy
- The computer mostly picks squares at random. Great for young children and for learning the game — you can win often.
- Difficult
- The computer always takes a winning move and blocks yours, but it can still slip up. Set up two threats at once to beat it.
- Unbeatable
- The computer plays perfectly. It can't be beaten — the best you can do is a draw, so a draw here counts as a success.
Common questions
Is it free?
Yes. It's free to play, with no sign-up, no downloads and no adverts.
Can the unbeatable computer be beaten?
No. It plays perfectly, so the best result you can get is a draw. Holding it to a draw is a real achievement.
Is it the same as tic-tac-toe?
Yes. Noughts and crosses is the British name for tic-tac-toe. The rules are identical.
Can two people play on one device?
Yes. Choose "Two players" and take turns on the same board. ✕ goes first.
Does it work on phones and tablets?
Yes. Tap a square to place your mark. Your scores are saved on your device between visits.