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Lines & Squares
Lines & Squares is the grid-and-dots family of pencil games in which players draw connecting lines to enclose unit squares. It shares its DNA with Dots and Boxes: simple to start, but the endgame turns on counting chains and sacrificing squares to force your opponent's hand.
Lines & Squares Rules
Draw a grid of evenly spaced dots, then take turns adding one straight line between two horizontally or vertically adjacent dots. Each edge can be drawn only once, and lines never run diagonally.
Completing the fourth side of a unit square claims it — mark it with your symbol and take another turn immediately. As long as each line you draw closes a square, you keep going.
The game ends when every possible line between dots has been drawn. Tally the squares each player has marked; whoever encloses more squares wins the round.
Lines & Squares Strategy & Tips
Don't hand over the third side
Drawing a square's third edge lets your opponent close it for free. In the opening, only play edges that keep every square at two sides or fewer.
Count the chains
When the board fills, squares link into chains that fall together. Count how many chains remain and steer the game so your opponent is forced to open the first one.
Sacrifice to keep control
Instead of greedily taking a whole chain, leave the final two squares so your opponent must open the next chain. This all-but-two sacrifice keeps you in control of the board.
Mind chain parity
Whether the first or second player should win depends on how many long chains form. Try to make the number of long chains favorable to whichever player you are.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Lines & Squares different from Dots and Boxes?
They are essentially the same game — both have players draw lines between dots to enclose unit squares, claim them, and take an extra turn for each square completed.
Do you get an extra turn for completing a square?
Yes. Each square you close earns another move, so a single well-placed line can let you claim several squares in a row down a chain.
What grid size is best?
A field that produces a 5×5 grid of squares is a good balance for casual play. Smaller grids are quicker and better for learning the chain tactics.
How do you win consistently?
Avoid giving free squares early, then control chain parity and use the all-but-two sacrifice so your opponent is always the one forced to open the next chain.