Hex Strategy Tips
Hex is a connection game played on a diamond-shaped board of hexagonal cells. Invented independently by mathematician Piet Hein in 1942 and Nobel laureate John Nash in 1948, Hex has mathematical elegance: it cannot end in a draw, and one player always has a winning strategy. Simple rules lead to profound strategic depth.
Build Bridges
Two stones placed two apart with one empty hex between them form a 'bridge.' Your opponent cannot block both connection points, so bridges are effectively connected. Learn to see and use bridge patterns.
Control the Center
Central cells are valuable because they can connect to paths going in many directions. A strong central presence gives you more options to complete your connection.
Create Multiple Threats
Force your opponent to choose between two connection points. When you have two ways to connect and they can only block one, you complete your path through the other.
Use Templates
Experienced Hex players learn 'templates', proven patterns that guarantee connection to the edge. Once you recognize these patterns, you can play confidently knowing the connection is secure.
Think About the Whole Path
Don't just focus on local battles. Consider your entire connection from one side to the other. Sometimes the winning move is far from where the current action is.
Learn, Play, and Have Fun!
Ready to play Hex online? Start a match against the computer now. No signup, no friction.