Go
Play Go directly in your browser. No installs needed, just open the board and start playing.
Quick facts
- Platform
- Desktop and mobile browser
- Typical time
- 5–15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Beginner-friendly
- Players
- Solo or pass-and-play
- Input / output
- Tap, click, or use the on-screen controls
About Go
Go is a two-player territory strategy game. Players place black and white stones on the intersections of the grid, trying to surround territory and capture opposing stones while building strong connected groups.
How to play Go
Take turns placing one stone on an empty intersection. Stones stay where they are placed unless captured. A stone or group is captured when all of its liberties, meaning adjacent open points, are surrounded by the opponent.
Who it is for
For players who enjoy building a position across a whole board rather than chasing one target. It suits people willing to learn how group safety, open points and territory interact.
Features
- Place black and white stones on grid intersections.
- Capture groups by surrounding their liberties.
- Compete to surround territory.
Tips for playing Go
Think about territory and influence, not just captures. Keep your groups connected, avoid getting surrounded, and leave enough liberties for your stones. Corners and edges are often easier places to build territory than the centre.
Important limitations
Game rules and controls are shown on the page. Results are for entertainment and practice; the site does not provide competitive ranking or guaranteed skill assessment.
Related online games
Go history and background
Go is one of the world's oldest board games and is thought to have originated in China thousands of years ago. It became especially important in East Asian game culture and is still played seriously today.
Go FAQ
What is the goal of Go?
The goal is to surround more territory than your opponent while keeping your groups alive.
Is Go harder than it looks?
Yes. The rules are simple, but the strategy can become very deep.