Tic-Tac-Toe attack and defense strategy

Tic-Tac-Toe Strategy: Win, Block, Then Create a Fork

The 3x3 board has only nine squares; missing a single diagonal line could turn lead into defeat.

First question: Can I form three pieces in a row now?

In Tic-Tac-Toe, the cross side moves first, and both sides take turns occupying one empty space. On a horizontal, vertical, or two diagonal lines, whoever first forms three of their own symbols wins immediately. When it's your turn, first check the eight possible three-piece lines: Is there one with two of your own pieces and the third square still empty?

If you have a direct winning point, place it in that space first. Don't miss this move just to block the opponent's threat, because your three-win will immediately end the game.

Second question: Will the opponent win in the next move?

If you don't have a direct winning point, check if your opponent already has two pieces on the same line, and if the third square is empty. If so, prioritize blocking this space; Focusing only on horizontal and vertical rows will miss the diagonal.

When two different opponents form three points at the same time, a single square usually cannot block both. In such situations, you can review whether the previous move missed the defense or allowed the opponent to create a double threat.

Third question: Can it create a dual threat?

If neither side directly becomes a three-pointer, find a position that can threaten both lanes at once. So-called double threat means the next turn may be from two linesDifferent spacesThree consecutive wins; If your opponent only takes one of them, you still have another path.

Inspection sequenceThe space you're looking for
Win firstAfter landing, he immediately became a three-square
Block againThe opponent's next move could become a three-square
After building momentumAfter dropping, it creates two different successor win points

The center grid has four three-line lines, the corner grid has three, suitable for finding multiple lines; But you still need to follow the order of 'win first, then block.'

When does it count as a draw?

If all nine squares are filled and neither side forms three consecutive stones, the game is judged as a draw. When choosing to hold a circle, the computer will first make an X; No matter which side you hold, each turn you first look at your own direct victory points, then the opponent's.