How to Play 2048
Slide tiles on a 4×4 grid. Combine matching numbers. Reach 2048.
The Basics
Slide
Use arrow keys or swipe to move all tiles in one direction.
Merge
When two tiles with the same number collide, they merge into their sum.
Grow
After each move, a new tile (2 or 4) appears. Reach the 2048 tile to win.
How Merging Works
Same Numbers
Only tiles with the same value merge. 2+2=4, 4+4=8, and so on.
One Merge Per Move
A tile can only merge once per move. The result won't merge again until the next move.
Game Over
The game ends when the grid is full and no merges are possible.
Strategies
Corner Strategy
Keep your highest tile in a corner. Build a descending chain along one edge.
Avoid Reversals
Don't move in the direction that pulls your biggest tile away from its corner.
Keep the Edge Full
Fill one row or column completely to prevent unwanted tiles from breaking your chain.
Think Ahead
Plan 2–3 moves ahead. Avoid creating isolated high tiles that can't merge.
Tips
- Pick a corner and commit to it
- Use two primary directions, one as backup
- Small tiles are fine — they'll merge up eventually
- A full board isn't game over if merges remain