2048

About 2048

2048 looks simple at first glance: a small 4x4 board, a couple of numbered tiles and four directions to push them. Every move slides all the tiles at once, and whenever two of the same number collide they combine into one tile with double the value.

The challenge is keeping the board from filling up as new tiles keep arriving. Good players work toward the 2048 tile by planning merges several moves ahead and keeping their biggest numbers tucked into a corner. Luck plays a small role, but steady strategy wins out. Once you reach 2048, trying to get there in fewer moves becomes a fresh goal.

How to play 2048

• Arrow keys - slide all tiles
• W, A, S, D - slide tiles as an alternative

Playing 2048 on a computer

2048 slides every tile at once with each move. Press Play now and then the distributor's PLAY prompt to bring up the grid. Use the arrow keys, or W, A, S and D, to push the tiles; matching numbers merge into one tile worth double. A dependable tactic is keeping your largest tile in a corner and mostly using the two directions that hold it there.

Playing 2048 on a phone or tablet

This 2048 build lists only the arrow keys and WASD as controls, and its distributor does not flag it for phones, so swiping is not confirmed to work. Treat it as a keyboard game and play on a computer or Chromebook. Puzzle fans on a phone can browse anything tagged "Desktop and mobile" instead.

On a phone right now? Try Amaze, Block Blast and 99 Balls - they are built for touch screens.

Tips and tricks

• Keep your highest tile in one corner and build around it.
• Avoid pressing the direction that would pull your big tile out of its corner.
• After you win, replay and aim for a lower score, which means fewer moves.

Game details

2048 FAQ