2048 Game
Slide the tiles, merge matching numbers and aim for the 2048 tile. Play with a keyboard or your finger, with undo for your last move and an automatically saved game.
- Free
- 3×3 to 6×6 grids
- Undo a move
- No sign-up
100% private — Everything is processed directly in your browser: your files, voice, and image are never sent to Chatzam's servers.
How to play 2048
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Slide the tiles
Use the arrow keys or WASD, or swipe your finger across the grid. Every tile slides as far as it can in the direction you choose.
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Merge matching numbers
When two tiles with the same number collide, they merge into one tile with double the value: 2 + 2 makes 4, 4 + 4 makes 8, and so on. Your score goes up by the value you create.
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Reach 2048 without filling the grid
After every move, a new tile (a 2, or sometimes a 4) appears. The game ends when the grid is full and no merge is possible.
Everything you need to play comfortably
Four grid sizes
The classic 4×4, a shorter 3×3 (goal: 256), and roomier 5×5 and 6×6 grids that give you time to build huge tiles.
Undo a move
Made a bad move? Go back one step, even after the grid is stuck. Undo only works for your last move.
Slide and merge animations
Tiles slide and merged tiles "pulse" so you can easily follow what happened. Animations are turned off if your device asks for reduced motion.
Score, best scores and stats
Your best score is saved for each grid size, along with games played, games won and your winning streak. Your current game is waiting for you when you come back.
The rules of 2048
2048 is played on a square grid, 4 × 4 by default. At the start, two tiles showing a 2 or a 4 are placed at random. On each turn you pick a direction and every tile slides as far as it can. When two tiles with the same value touch during the move, they merge into a single tile with double the value, and that value is added to your score. A tile created by a merge can't merge again in the same move: a row of 2, 2, 2, 2 becomes 4, 4 and not 8. Then a new tile appears: a 2 nine times out of ten, a 4 the other time. You win by creating the 2048 tile, but you can keep playing afterwards to beat your best score.
2048 tips and strategy for reaching 2048 and beyond
Pick a corner and keep your biggest tile there: use only two or three directions (for example down and left) and play the fourth only when you have no other choice. Line up your tiles in descending order along one edge, in a snake pattern, so merges chain together like a reaction. Avoid leaving a small tile stranded between big ones: it will block your row. Look at the whole grid before you move, not just the tile you want to merge. And use undo to test an idea: it takes back one move, which is great for learning.
Why try other grid sizes?
The 4 × 4 grid is the classic balance, but other sizes change the game completely. On a 3 × 3 grid you run out of space fast: the goal is set to 256, a real test of precision and speed. On 5 × 5 and 6 × 6 grids you have room to spare and can aim for tiles far beyond 2048, up to 8192 or more depending on your patience. They're great for practice or for a more relaxed game. Each size keeps its own best score, so your scores stay comparable.
Play 2048 on a computer or on your phone
The game runs in your browser, with nothing to install and no account to create. On a computer, the arrow keys or WASD slide the tiles. On a phone or tablet, just swipe your finger across the grid; the page doesn't scroll while you play on the grid. Your game is saved automatically, so you can close the tab and pick it up later on the same device. This puzzle game was created in 2014 by developer Gabriele Cirulli, who was inspired by other tile games; this version is an independent creation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you win at 2048?
You need to create a tile with the value 2048 by merging matching tiles. Keep your biggest tile in a corner, play mostly in two or three directions, and line up your tiles in descending order along one edge.
Can you keep playing after 2048?
Yes. When you reach the goal tile, a message offers to continue: you can then aim for 4096, 8192 and beyond to improve your score.
How do I undo a move?
Tap the "Undo" button: it takes back one move, even at the end of a stuck game. It only undoes a single move, never several in a row.
Which keys can I use?
The keyboard arrow keys or WASD. On a touchscreen, swipe your finger in the direction you want across the grid.
What are the goals for each grid size?
2048 for the 4×4, 5×5 and 6×6 grids, and 256 for the much smaller 3×3 grid. You can keep going afterwards; the game only ends when the grid is stuck.
Is my game saved?
Yes, automatically, in your device's browser. Your best scores for each grid size and your stats are saved there too, until you clear the site's data.