Doesn't Tic Tac Toe (3x3) always end up in a tie unless you make a really obvious mistake?

Question

what's the point of the game then?

Answer 1

The solution to tic-tac-toe, which it the implementation of perfect strategy, is a draw. Neither the X's nor O's can force a win. Given the limited number of possible plays, taking symmetry into account, most people will learn optimum strategy fairly quickly.

It is a decent teaching tool for children as it is likely the first non-random strategy game that they play. It gives children the opportunity to learn from errors in play, which is something that should translate into other learning by trial and error.

If the software is sophisticated enough, it might eventually allow computer algorithms to "learn" how to formulate strategy, sort of a primitive artificial intelligence at work. Perhaps it might be useful in preventing nuclear holocaust. :-)

Answer 2

Young children lack the analytical ability to determine the optimal way to play tic-tac-toe, so the first few dozen or hundred times they play it is actually a playable game. If you're playing it past the age of say, 8, however, you're probably mentally retarded.

Many games are similar to this in that once you grasp how the game is best played, further play is rather futile, examples being Battleship, Connect Four, or Checkers, or any game with relatively simple rules and small number of moves and all the information is readily available (perfect information games).

Answer 3

YES.
The X needs to start in the center or corner. He needs to string three in a row, column, or diagonal.

The O then has two chances to block the string, whichever way the X goes.

So you are correct. Absent a stupid blunder from inexperience, Tic-Tac-To is just a child's game, and not worth much.

Othello is a better game.

Even better than Othello, is "Go".

Answer 4

yeah i know, that's why i've stopped playing since i was 8 yrs old or so
the point of the game is that u know u have to start first in order to win and u hope that ur opponent does not know the trick for winning OR ur really bored...(i opt for the latter)

Answer 5

actually there is a trick to playing that gives you two options on you next move that guarantees a win no matter where your oponent places their mark.

Answer 6

yes. i agree.. but there is an advantage if you're the one starting the game...

Answer 7

yes

Answer 8

oh yes.. always