There are a whole host of interesting and fun little board games in the world. And almost each of them has some secret, the knowledge of which allows you to be the main contender for victory. In this case, we will talk about the wonderful game of tic-tac-toe. So, how to win at tic-tac-toe?
As mentioned above, almost all such games have their own secret. In this case, this secret consists of the ability to anticipate the situation and the ability to create the situation. That is, it's like chess, only a more simplified version. So before you win at tic-tac-toe, you need to learn a few simple tricks.
First of all, you should know that the main principle of victory is to create two incompletely filled lines. With this option, the opponent's next move will be absolutely unimportant (unless, of course, this is a winning move). To create such a favorable situation, it is best to take a place in the center of the field. Even more than that, in fact, there is no other way to win at tic-tac-toe. Unless, of course, the opponent is not a complete layman (and sometimes this happens).
So, to win, it is highly desirable to be the first and it is in the center. If the opponent put his piece in any of the central lines, he automatically played. The main thing in this case is to know the very essence of the game of tic-tac-toe. So, if
since the opponent acted in such an imprudent way, we must put our cross in one of the corners, and so that it simultaneously blocks the further advance of the zero. Further, he has no choice but to become defensive (and this should have been done from the very first move). Zero in any case becomes in the opposite corner. Then our cross should be placed again in the corner. What we have? And we immediately have two lines of two crosses. This means that the following actions of the opponent are absolutely not important to us. With any move, we win.
In the event that, again, we move first and put our piece in the center, and the opponent puts his piece in the corner, then the chances of winning are significantly reduced. In fact, there is only one possible option that will not allow this game to come down to a draw. When the opponent answered our move with his zero in the corner, it is necessary to put a cross in the opposite side. The opponent has three possible moves. If he again puts his piece in a corner, it's a draw. If he chooses the central lines, this is a loss. Both with one of his moves and with another, everything becomes obvious, and there is no need to explain how to win at tic-tac-toe.
As for when the opponent starts the match, then almost everything happens the same, only with reverse accuracy. If his figure is placed in the center, you need to become defensive and slowly forget how to win at tic-tac-toe, because here the only possible option is a draw.
And if his piece is placed from the first move in any of the eight cells in addition to the central one, then you need to occupy this very center, and then act according to the circumstances.
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Each of us at least once in our lives played the famous tic-tac-toe, trying to build 3 crosses or 3 zeros in a row or diagonally on a nine-cell field. If you have practiced enough in this game, then you probably know that two experienced players always end up in a draw, and this makes the game uninteresting for them. In this article, you will read about how to win at tic-tac-toe, or at least not lose, and learn all the tricks and secrets of this popular game.
A little about the rules. The goal of the game is to line up 3 identical figures (3 crosses or 3 zeros) horizontally, vertically or diagonally on a nine-cell field in a row before your partner in the game does. The game of tic-tac-toe begins with the move of a player who puts a cross in any cell on the playing field three by three (we note right away that he has much more chances to win than the opponent). After that, the second player puts a zero in any free cell. Then the cross goes again. Then zero again. And so it continues until:
- One of the players will not build 3 crosses or 3 zeros in a row or diagonally, and as a result will be declared the winner;
- There will be no free cells left, and there will not be three consecutive identical figures on the field - in this case, a draw is declared.
Tick Tactics
The first move of the crosses. The most advantageous position is the middle of the playing field, or as noted in the diagram, cell number 5. This is where you should enter your figure if this cell is free, and that is why beginning crosses always have an advantage. Through the center cell you can build the largest number possible winning options: two diagonals, one horizontal and one vertical.
The second move of the crosses. After you have made the first move by placing a cross in the center, you just have to wait for the opponent's move. All in all, he only has 2 possible options actions: put a zero in one of the "corner" cells (No. 1, No. 3, No. 7 and No. 9) or place your figure in cells No. 2, No. 4, No. 6 or No. 8. And it should be noted right away that your ability to win is already fundamentally dependent on this move.
If the player chooses one of the off-diagonal cells #2, #4, #6 or #8, then you have a win-win strategy. In other words, you can win with a 100% chance if you know how to act correctly. This algorithm is described in the diagram below. First of all, you need to put a cross with your second move in the corner cell, forcing the opponent to defend. And after that, you occupy another free corner cell, as a result of which you have 2 rows, where only one cross is missing (this is shown in last field scheme). Wherever your opponent puts his zero, you win in any case, having a backup strategy.
If your opponent chooses cells #1, #3, #7 and #9 with his first move, then you do not have an absolute winning strategy, and you should only rely on the further inattention of the second player, which is quite rare in such a simple game.
The third and subsequent moves of the crosses. Further moves of the "crosses" should be aimed at building 3 of their own pieces in a row, as well as at suppressing the unlikely, but still possible attempts of the "zeros" to put 3 pieces in a row.
Also, "crosses" in order to win can start not only from the central cell, but also from the corner. More about it.
Zero move algorithms
If you happen to play with zeroes, then in most cases you will only have to fight for a draw. However, you have a chance to win if you play with a completely inexperienced player.
The first move of zeros. If for some reason player No. 1 did not occupy the central cell, feel free to put a zero there and proceed further, relying on the cross strategy described above. But, most likely, the central cell will already be occupied by the time of your initial move. In this case, do not make the unforgivable mistake and do not put a zero in cells #2, #4, #6 or #8, but choose only diagonal cells #1, #3, #7 and #9.
Second and subsequent moves. Further moves of the "zeros" should be aimed at suppressing the attempts of the "crosses" to put 3 figures in a row, and also, if possible, at building 3 zeroes in a row, which is practically impossible.
All game strategies
The chart below, which can be found on Wikipedia, shows the possible strategies for wins and draws in a game of tic-tac-toe on a 9-cell field. 
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I hope this article has helped you with the tricks of tic-tac-toe, including money and stripping, and now you know some of the necessary tactics and strategies in order to win (or at least not lose) in this wonderful game. And if you have comments, feedback and suggestions - leave them below.
Winning at tic-tac-toe does not always depend on chance or luck. There is a certain scheme for how to win this game. This is what our article is about.
A bit of history
When thinking about how to win at tic-tac-toe, people are rarely interested in the origin of this puzzle. Meanwhile, its history is rooted in antiquity. Similar fun existed among many peoples, but most experts agree that the Japanese were the inventors of the game. Many attribute authorship to the Chinese, referring to the gomoku puzzle. But there is no definite answer to this question, because the prototypes of tic-tac-toe were discovered during archaeological excavations in America, Greece and other countries. Such a simple, at first glance, game is shrouded in many secrets and mysteries.
Rules of the game
There are not many people in the world who are not familiar with the rules of the game of tic-tac-toe. During this lesson, millions of schoolchildren and students spent boring lessons, drawing dozens and hundreds of notebook sheets. Nevertheless, it is worth recalling the rules for both beginners and experienced players.
- First you need to draw on a piece of paper a square field of nine cells (three in height and width).
- The game is designed for two participants, one of whom will walk with "crosses", and the second with "tac-toes".
- The first to enter the competition are "crosses".
- Players take turns filling the cells with their symbols.
- The winner is the one who first builds a continuous row of "crosses" or "toes" in any direction (vertically, horizontally, diagonally).
- In the event that all the cells are filled, but a solid line is not formed, the result is a draw.
The rules are extremely simple and familiar, perhaps, to everyone. But not everyone knows that victory does not always depend on chance. There are certain rules on how to win at tic-tac-toe.
Game features
Of course, for most people, the game of tic-tac-toe is purely recreational and in a good way kill time. Someone competes in this activity for money, for desires, and even for undressing. Someone even considers tic-tac-toe boring and meaningless, because there is no place for fantasy in them. But only true connoisseurs know that this is a complex logical, highly intellectual, strategic game. Even the Chinese are passionate about this activity, and they already know a lot about puzzles.
Serious opponents can draw cells for hours, filling them with "crosses" and "tac-toes" in the hope of winning, but often the game ends in a draw, and you have to start over again. That is why every fan of this puzzle wants to know the secret of how to win at tic-tac-toe. There is a scheme to achieve victory.
Victory of the crosses
Since the "crosses" start the game, they have little more options how to win at tic-tac-toe. The essence of the strategy is to create a profitable situation on two lanes at once, without letting the opponent block your path. Therefore, you need to learn how to calculate the actions of the enemy a few steps ahead, setting the tone of the game.
Most often, "crosses" tend to occupy the central cell, considering it the most advantageous position. Nevertheless, the player drives himself into a dead end, allowing the enemy to surround him. There is a more effective option on how to win at tic-tac-toe.
- Make it a rule to occupy the lower left corner. So, by controlling the entire field, it will be easier for you to figure out how to win at tic-tac-toe. The photo below demonstrates the mechanism of actions that should be followed in the event that the "zero" went out of the center of the field.
- Also, a cunning opponent may choose a different path and make a move in the central cell, thinking that it will complicate your task. It really all depends on your luck and possible error"naught". If he starts to build diagonal lines, then victory is in your pocket. Otherwise, you can count on a maximum draw.
Victory of "zeros"
Since the "zeros" go second, they have to react to the opponent's actions, repelling attacks. But this does not mean at all that the second player has no options on how to win at tic-tac-toe. Here, as in the first case, it all depends on what place the opponent takes on the field.
Schemes only at first glance may seem complicated. In fact, they just need to learn and be able to navigate during the game. By the way, if you are interested in the question of how to win against a computer in tic-tac-toe, then use the same algorithm. But it will be much more difficult with the car, because all the winning combinations are also familiar to her.
- Make only deliberate and well-thought-out moves. No need to rush and succumb to emotions, it is better to take a short break. The obvious step is not always the right one.
- When in doubt between two moves, choose the safest one. Better to come to a draw than to lose.
- Think ahead of your opponent's moves. Imagine how you would have acted in his place, and block the possibility of victory.
- Focus on two options that can lead you to a win.
Tic Tac Toe is an amazing game that is suitable for kids of all ages. In addition, such competitions improve logical thinking, attention and quick wits. Moreover, it is not so difficult to explain to a child how to play tic-tac-toe.
Rules for playing tic-tac-toe
You can play tic-tac-toe anywhere and all you need to compete is a piece of paper, pens and pencils and, of course, an opponent. But if you wish, you can buy a ready-made set for tic-tac-toe. Moreover, even kids will like this board game, because all the details of it are made in bright colors.
You can play tic-tac-toe anywhere.
In addition, shop tic-tac-toe are made of durable materials. They are more durable and can be taken on any trip. But you can do with a regular piece of paper. Game order:
- Draw a playing field from squares with dimensions 3 * 3.
- Agree which of the participants will walk with crosses or tac-toes.
- The first player places a piece in any of the cells, after which the move passes to the next participant.
- The second player draws a symbol in a free cell, and the move is returned to the first participant.
- The game continues until all cells are filled, or one of the participants makes a chain of three identical symbols. Moreover, the row goes horizontally, vertically or diagonally.
Therefore, players need to place symbols in such a way as to win themselves and prevent the opponent from making a chain of three crosses or zeros.
How to win in a game for two
Winning this game is not only due to luck. Tips to help defeat the enemy:
- Put the first cross or zero in the center of the field. This will increase the chance of winning, because then the chain can be continued in all directions.
- Do not start the game with squares that are not corner or center. This will reduce the chance of winning, because it is almost impossible to build a chain with these cells.
- If the opponent makes the first move, then it will be more difficult to win. And if you don't want to lose, make sure that the second player does not complete the chain.
- Train. The more practice you have, the faster you will develop a winning strategy.
- Place the characters correctly. Try to put icons in three corners of the playing field. Then the enemy will not be able to prevent you from winning.
Tic-tac-toe - simple but pretty interesting game. Teach her baby and he will be happy to spend a lot of time at the competition. In addition, this entertainment perfectly develops the child.
Hello readers of my blog, today I will tell you how to win at tic-tac-toe.
A wonderful game that does not require much preparation, we found a pen or pencil, a piece of paper and a partner.
In fact, the game is simple and, at the same time, difficult. Many do not take it seriously, so they lose. To be honest, I myself did not understand how to play it, but then I analyzed all the possible moves and realized that everything here depends on mathematics.
Why is this game so easy? The thing is that there are only 9 cells here, that is, you have 1 of 9 initial options, and then this number decreases by 1. That is, if you made your move, then your opponent already has not 9 options, but only 8, because 1 cell is already occupied.
Well, I think you understood this even without me, today I’m like “Captain Obvious”. Why is it difficult, because there are possible combinations here, and if you want to learn how to win in this game, then you will need a pen, as well as a clean sheet.
How to win at tic tac toe
Basic concepts to know:
Field- a conditional field of 3 × 3 cells, where the battle takes place.
crosses- these are the “x” icons, they go first.
Toe- these are the “0” icons, they go second.
Victory- when a player collects 3 crosses or 3 zeros in a row.
Here is an example field.
In order for you to analyze correctly, let's number each cell.
Here at least so that you understand where which field is.
3×3 winning strategy
Remember that if you play for zeros, that is, you need to make a second move, then against a strong opponent you will only make a draw. It is difficult to win with zeroes, as they move second and, practically, always defend themselves from the threats that crosses create (they move first).
Don't be surprised by what I write, as for beginners, I want you to understand how to win correctly for crosses and how to draw for zeroes.
Let's start…
The best strategy. The crosses make a move to the 5th cell, which is in the middle.
Further, REMEMBER that if the zeroes make their second move not on a DIAGONAL CAGE, then they lose. It doesn't matter which cell, they make a move: 2, 4, 6, 8, if they put a zero on any of these fields, then they lose by force.
For example, you bet on 5, they bet on 2, now you bet on 1 or 3, threatening to make 3 crosses diagonally. Well, ok, you bet on 1, it turns out that if you put a cross on the field 9, you will win. You force a zero on square 9, but now you win gracefully by putting a cross on square 7.
It turns out that you threaten to put three crosses diagonally with move 3 and vertically with move - 4. Beauty, isn't it?
The best defense for zeros is, after going 5 for crosses, to make moves: 1, 3, 7, 9, in this case, if you are careful, you will always make a draw. Remember this simple rule and you will never lose.
Cunning strategy for crosses
But, after all, the player is not at all obliged to make the first move to the middle, that is, to the cell - 5. Here, there is a very cool trap, you make the first move to the corner field.
The best defense here is to occupy the field with zeroes - 5, since it is free, then it needs to be occupied. In this case, zeros will always make a draw, by constantly threatening to put three in a row themselves.
If, for example, the crosses make a move to the cell - 1, then it will be a mistake to make a move - 4 and 9, in these cases, the crosses win by force.
Let's explore these options:
BUT) crosses- 1, zeros - 4, crosses - 5, zeros - 9 (forced), crosses - 3 with a win on fields 2 or 7, depending on the answer of the zeros.
C) Crosses - 1, zeros - 9, crosses - 3, zeros - 2 (forced), crosses - 7 with a win on fields 4 or 5, depending on the answer of the zeros.
Well, that's all, friends, I hope that now you know how to win tic-tac-toe 3x3. There is nothing complicated in it (the game), with the right defense, there will always be a draw here, but, as you can see, there are interesting options for crosses in which you can catch zeroes.
I wish you victories, if I forgot to write something, then remind me, you can even in the comments.
Good luck everyone, bye!
Sincerely, Yuri Vatsenko!