Game of Y Strategy: 5 Tips

Y is pure connection. Rules first? See how to play.

1. Three sides at once

A group that reaches two sides is only halfway. Build from the centre outwards so that each stone shortens the distance to all three sides, not just one.

2. Bridges cannot be cut

Two stones with two empty cells between them (the diagonal "bridge") are as good as connected: if your opponent takes one gap, you take the other. Build in bridges to move fast.

3. Block where it hurts

Count how many stones your opponent needs to finish, as the hard computer does. Place your stone on the cell that raises that number most, which is often also the cell that lowers yours.

4. Blocking is connecting

Because a full board always has exactly one winner, any wall that stops your opponent is itself part of your winning group. Think of defence and attack as the same move.

5. Mind the swap

Opening in the centre invites a swap. Red should open a little off-centre; Blue should swap whenever the first stone is strong.

The hard computer measures each side's remaining distance to all three edges, scores the best junction, and searches two plies over the top candidates; normal looks one ply ahead; easy plays a random move from the better half.

Last updated 2026-10-21