Every merge adds the new tile's value to your score, so big merges late in the game are worth more than a dozen small ones early on. The New game button starts over from scratch, and the sound button turns the merge sounds on and off. Beat your best score and the game asks for your name — that puts you on the global leaderboard, with separate daily, weekly and monthly boards and your own rank on each one.

Skins change what the tiles show but never how they play: Classic is plain numbers, Empires marches from the Roman Kingdom to the British Empire, Ming Dynasty runs from Xia to Ming, and Fruit Battle grows from a grape to a watermelon. Switch skins from the title at any time — switching starts a new game.

How do I play 2048?

On a computer use the arrow keys or WASD; on a phone, swipe on the board. Tiles slide and merge when two with the same number touch. Reach 2048 to win.

What happens when I reach 2048?

You win, and you can keep playing to chase a higher score.

Is 2048 free to play?

Yes. It is free to play in your browser. No download and no sign-up needed.

Can I play 2048 on my phone?

Yes. Swipe on the board to move the tiles. It works the same as on a computer.

Does the game save my best score?

Yes. Your best score is saved, so it is still there when you come back.

• Keep your biggest tile in one corner and build around it.
• Don't move the big tile out of its corner — pick a direction you avoid.
• Set up merges one move early instead of swiping at random.
• When the board gets crowded, merge the smallest tiles first to free space.