Objective of the Game
The goal of Hex is to form a continuous chain of one's stones connecting their designated sides of the hexagonal grid board.
Game Components
- A hexagonal grid board, typically 11x11, 13x13, or 19x19.
- Two sets of stones in different colors.
Setup
- Each player selects a color of stones.
- Place the board between the players.
Gameplay
- Starting Player: The first player is determined randomly. The second player may choose to use the Swap Rule (explained below).
- Taking Turns: Players take alternate turns placing one of their stones on any empty space on the board.
- Goal: Each player attempts to form an unbroken chain of their stones from one of their designated board edges to the opposite edge.
Special Rules
- Swap Rule: After the first move, the second player may choose to swap roles with the first player, taking their first move as their own. This option helps balance the starting advantage.
- Board Symmetry: A Hex board is a regular, orthogonal tiling board that offers identical conditions for both players, leading to a perfectly symmetric play field.
Strategic Tips
- Encourage early control of turns by establishing connections at strategic points, thus creating hurdles for your opponent.
- On boards large enough, consider using the delayed swapback, commonly employed in tournament settings, where players can opt to re-swap in future turns.
- Closely observe your opponent's moves and actively block their potential connection routes.
Ending and Winning the Game
The game ends when one player successfully forms an unbroken chain of stones from one edge of their side of the board to the opposite. That player is declared the winner.
Note: Since every move requires opposite reactions from each player, it's possible for a line to not definitively connect until the board is entirely filled, officially establishing the winner.