Game Guides
Plain-English guides to the rules and strategy of classic games. Each one is written to be useful at a real table as well as on screen, and links to a game you can play straight away.
How to Play Chess: Rules, Pieces and Tips for BeginnersLearn chess from scratch: how each piece moves, what check and checkmate mean, the special moves, and simple habits that win more games.
8 Ball Pool Rules: How to Play and WinA plain guide to 8 ball pool: how the rack works, solids and stripes, fouls, how to win on the black, and the shot habits that matter most.
Solitaire Rules: How to Play Klondike, Spider, FreeCell and TriPeaksThe rules of the four most popular solitaire games, how they differ, and the simple strategies that win more deals.
Sudoku Tips for Beginners: How to Solve Any Puzzle Without GuessingHow sudoku works, the three basic solving techniques, how to use pencil marks, and what to do when you get stuck on a harder puzzle.
How to Play Ludo: Rules, Safe Squares and Winning TipsLudo rules explained simply, including how to start, capture and get home, plus the common house rules and tips for beating better players.
13-Card Rummy Rules: Sequences, Sets and How to DeclareA clear guide to 13-card rummy: what counts as a pure sequence, how jokers work, how points are scored, and the mistakes that cost beginners most.
Backgammon for Beginners: Rules, Openings and Basic StrategyLearn backgammon from scratch: how the board works, how to move, hit and bear off, the best opening rolls, and the simple plans strong players use.
Carrom Rules and Shots: A Complete Beginner's GuideHow to play carrom, including the coins, the queen, fouls and scoring, plus the basic shots and the aiming habits that make the biggest difference.
Dominoes Rules: How to Play Block and Draw DominoesThe rules of block and draw dominoes for two to four players, how scoring works, and the counting technique that separates good players from everyone else.
Connect 4 Strategy: How to Win Almost Every GamePractical Connect 4 strategy: why the centre column matters, how to build double threats, and the odd-even rule that decides close endgames.
Checkers Strategy: Practical Tips to Beat Better PlayersCheckers strategy for improving players: controlling the centre, guarding your back row, using forced jumps as traps, and knowing when to trade pieces.
Darts 501 Rules: Scoring, Doubles and How to Check OutHow 501 darts works, from how the board scores to the bust rule and finishing on a double, with a table of common checkouts to memorise.
How to Score and Save Penalties: Tips for Football Games and Real LifeWhat research and pros tell us about penalty kicks, why keepers dive early, where to aim, and how to use the same thinking in online penalty games.
The Best Free Games to Play With Friends OnlineWhich free browser games work best with friends, sorted by what you want from the evening: quick rounds, family games, strategy or a shootout rivalry.