Threeinarow

Three-in-a-row, sometimes written as threeinarow, denotes a family of abstract strategy and puzzle games in which players take turns placing marks or tiles on a grid or board with the aim of forming a straight line of three of their symbols. The line can run horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, and the specific rules may vary by variant.

The most familiar example is tic-tac-toe (noughts and crosses), played on a 3x3 grid. Other variants use larger boards, different numbers of marks in a row required to win, or rotated and irregular grids. Digital and casual implementations often adapt the mechanic for different themes or multiplayer formats.

Rules are typically simple: players alternate placing their markers on unoccupied spaces; the first player to form a straight line of three wins; if all spaces are filled without a three-in-a-row, the game ends in a draw. Some variants allow or require exactly three in a row, while others permit longer lines to count as victory.

Strategy and theory note that, on a standard 3x3 board, perfect play results in a draw. The center square is usually strong; creating or blocking forks is a common tactic. On larger boards, the game becomes more complex and often hinges on controlling key rows or forcing multiple threats.

Variations extend to different board shapes, sizes, and victory conditions, including playing to three in a row on hexagonal grids, or matching three in a row in puzzle games where items fall into place. The concept also appears in video games and match-three style puzzles, where alignment of three yields points or progress.

See also tic-tac-toe; connect three; match-three puzzle games.