Tic-Tac-Toe Strategy: How to Win (or Never Lose)

Tic-Tac-Toe is a solved game — with perfect play you can always win or draw, never lose. Here's the simple strategy. ▶ Play Tic-Tac-Toe free.

The winning order of priorities

1. Win: if you have two in a row, complete the third for the win.
2. Block: if your opponent has two in a row, block them.
3. Centre: take the centre square if it's free — it's part of four winning lines.
4. Opposite corner: if the opponent is in a corner, take the opposite corner.
5. Empty corner, then empty side.

Best first move

Starting in a corner gives your opponent the most chances to slip up. Take a corner first, then follow the priority list above and you'll never lose.

Like quick 1-v-computer games? Try Rock Paper Scissors and Higher or Lower. Browse all games.