The Corner Strategy
The most important rule in 2048: Pick a corner and keep your highest tile there at all times.
Most players choose the bottom-left or bottom-right corner. Once you choose, never let your highest tile leave that position.
How to Implement:
- Choose a corner (e.g., bottom-left)
- Use only two primary directions (e.g., down and left)
- Use the third direction (right) only when absolutely necessary
- Never use the opposite direction (up) unless forced
The Snake Pattern
Build your tiles in a snake-like pattern from the corner. This keeps tiles organized and maximizes merge opportunities.
For a bottom-left corner strategy:
- Highest tile in bottom-left
- Second highest to its right
- Continue along the bottom row
- Then snake up to the next row
Essential Tips
- Think ahead: Plan 2-3 moves in advance
- Avoid trapping tiles: Don't let small tiles get stuck between large ones
- Keep the board open: Maintain empty spaces for maneuvering
- Don't chase merges: Sometimes it's better to wait for a better opportunity
- Stay calm: When the board fills up, don't panic - look for the best move
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Moving your highest tile out of the corner
- Using all four directions randomly
- Not planning ahead
- Getting tunnel vision on one merge
- Panicking when the board gets full
Practice Makes Perfect
Start with 5×5 mode to practice strategies with more room for error. Once comfortable, try the standard 4×4, then challenge yourself with 3×3 hard mode!