Two players · grid
How to play Obstruction
Take turns marking a square; every mark blocks the squares around it. Whoever is left with no free square loses.
What you need
- A pencil or pen
- A sheet of paper
- Two players
How to set up
Draw a 6 by 6 grid. One player is X, the other O. X goes first.
1. Draw a square divided into 6 by 6 small squares (8 by 8 for a longer game).
2. Take turns writing your mark, X or O, in a free square.
3. Shade the eight squares around each new mark: they are blocked.
How to play
- Write your mark in any square that is empty and not shaded.
- Then shade every square touching it, diagonals too. Nobody may use them.
How to win
Make the last move: leave your rival with no free square. If it is your turn and no free square is left, you lose. There are no draws.
Tip Near the end, count the free spaces and try to leave an even number for your rival.
Variants
- 6 × 6
- A quick game: a dozen moves or so.
- 8 × 8
- A longer game with more room to plan.
Play Obstruction in the app
- Play against doodled characters, from beginner to expert.
- Pass and play with a friend on one device.
Every game comes with a step-by-step tutorial and printable sheets.