2048 Game
Slide the tiles and merge matching numbers to build bigger ones. Reach 2048 to win, then keep going for a higher score. Use the arrow keys on a computer or swipe on your phone.
Game over!
Arrow keys or W A S D on a keyboard, swipe on a phone. Ctrl+Z to undo.
How to use the 2048 Game
- Move the tiles with the arrow keys (or W A S D), or swipe on a touch screen. All tiles slide as far as they can in that direction.
- Merge matching tiles: when two tiles with the same number touch, they combine into one with double the value, and the new value is added to your score.
- A new tile appears (a 2 or sometimes a 4) after every move.
- Reach the 2048 tile to win. You can then keep going to chase a higher score.
- Made a mistake? Press Undo or Ctrl+Z to take back the last move.
2048 tips and tricks
- Pick a corner. Keep your largest tile in one corner, for example bottom left, and try never to move it.
- Build a snake. Line up tiles in decreasing order along the bottom row, then continue up the next row in the opposite direction.
- Limit your directions. Use mainly two directions (such as left and down), a third when needed, and the fourth only as a last resort.
- Keep the edge row full. A full bottom row can't shift sideways, which protects your corner tile.
- Think one move ahead. Before you swipe, check where the new tile might appear and whether it could block your chain.
Tile values and score
| Tile | Merges needed from 2s | Points earned building it |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 3 | 16 |
| 64 | 31 | 320 |
| 256 | 127 | 1,792 |
| 1024 | 511 | 9,216 |
| 2048 | 1,023 | 20,480 |
Each merge adds the value of the new tile to your score. Building a 2048 tile entirely from 2s earns 20,480 points; because some new tiles appear as 4s, a real game reaching 2048 usually scores a little under that.
Frequently asked questions
How do you play 2048?
Use the arrow keys or swipe to slide every tile on the board in one direction. Tiles with the same number merge into one when they collide, doubling their value. Each move adds a new 2 or 4 tile. The goal is to create a tile with the number 2048 before the board fills up.
What is the best strategy for 2048?
Keep your highest tile in one corner and build a chain of decreasing values along the edge next to it. Mostly use two or three directions (for example left, down and right) and avoid the move that pulls your big tile out of the corner.
Can I undo a move?
Yes. Press the Undo button or Ctrl+Z (Cmd+Z on Mac) to step back, up to the last 100 moves. Undo also works from the Game over screen.
Is my best score saved?
Yes. Your best score and the current game are saved in your browser on this device, so you can close the page and continue later.
What happens after I reach 2048?
You win! Choose Keep going to continue the same game and try for 4096, 8192 or beyond, or start a new game.
Who created 2048?
2048 was created by Italian developer Gabriele Cirulli in 2014 and released as free, open-source software. It became a worldwide hit and inspired many versions.