How to play 2048
Every move slides all the tiles as far as they'll go in one direction. When two tiles of the same number collide, they merge into one worth double — two 2s become a 4, two 4s become an 8, and so on. After each move a new 2 or 4 pops in somewhere. Chain merges to build bigger numbers and hit the coveted 2048 tile. The game ends only when the board is full and no neighbouring tiles can merge.
Strategy tips
Pick a corner and keep your biggest tile pinned there — most players build in the bottom-right and mostly alternate right and down. Avoid up-moves that scatter your big tile. Keep one row or column as a descending "ladder" so merges cascade. And don't fill the board with orphans you can't combine.
Frequently asked questions
How do you play 2048?
Slide tiles in one direction; matching tiles merge into double. A new 2 or 4 appears each move. Build up to 2048, then keep going. Game over when no merges remain.
Free with no ad wall?
Yes — no signup or download, no interstitials, works offline, best score saved locally.
Can I keep playing after 2048?
Yes — choose Keep Going to chase 4096, 8192 and higher scores.
Does it work on mobile?
Yes — swipe in any direction; on desktop use arrows or WASD.
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