Game Overview
2048 is a sliding number puzzle where you combine matching tiles (2+2=4, 4+4=8, etc.) until you reach 2048—or push far beyond if you can sustain space. Every move spawns a new tile, tightening board pressure.
This minimalist implementation runs fast, responds cleanly to keyboard input, and focuses on strategic depth. Below you’ll find a practical guide to improve planning, board shape management, and endgame survival.
Controls
- Arrow Keys / WASD: Slide all tiles in that direction.
- Touch (mobile): Swipe in the intended direction.
- Restart: Use the Restart button anytime to reset.
Important: A move only registers if at least one tile shifts or merges—wasted inputs are ignored.
Scoring & Mechanics
Each merge adds the value of the resulting tile to your score. So creating a 1024 tile grants 1024 points. Most score acceleration happens mid-game when repeated 128→256 and 256→512 merges compound.
Strategy Guide
1. Early Stabilization
Pick a corner (usually bottom-left) and funnel new tiles away from it. Resist moving opposite that corner unless forced.
2. Mid Board Flow
Maintain a descending chain. If a mid-value tile jumps above a larger tile you lose merge momentum. Use horizontal sweeps to realign.
3. Endgame Rescue
When space is nearly gone, seek “double unlock” moves—slides that both free a cell and set up an imminent merge. Two-turn lookahead prevents collapse.
Tile discipline beats luck. Over 70% of failed runs end due to structural disorder, not missing a single merge opportunity.
Common Mistakes
- Corner Drift: Letting the max tile float into the center—chaos follows.
- Impatience: Swiping rapidly without verifying a productive merge path.
- Symmetry Obsession: Perfect patterns matter less than flexible merge pipelines.
- Panic Reversal: Moving opposite your anchor repeatedly and scrambling the gradient.