How to Play Order and Chaos
Order and Chaos was invented by Stephen Sniderman in 1981. It looks like a tic-tac-toe variant but plays nothing like one: the two players want different things, and both control both symbols.
The rules
- A 6×6 board. Order moves first.
- On your turn place either an X or an O on any empty square. Both players may use both symbols.
- Order wins by making five in a row of the same symbol: horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Six in a row also counts.
- Chaos wins if the board fills with no five in a row.
Playing on kawu
Pick X or O above the board, then tap a square. Play Order or Chaos against the computer (three levels), or two players on one device. Hint shows the computer's choice of square and symbol.
Next, read the Order and Chaos strategy.
Frequently asked questions
Can Chaos place the symbol Order needs?
Yes, and that's the point: Chaos usually blocks by placing the other symbol, but sometimes the same symbol elsewhere is the better spoiler. Both players own both symbols.
Does six in a row count?
Yes. Any six in a row contains a five, so Order wins.
Who is favoured?
Order, with correct play, which is why Chaos is the harder and more interesting side to take against the computer.
Last updated 2026-10-20