2048
About 2048
Join the numbers and get to the 2048 tile! Use your arrow keys to move the tiles. When two tiles with the same number touch, they will merge into one!
2048 is free to play at Underground Games — no download, no sign-up, just hit play above and it loads instantly in your browser. Want more? Try the other math games below, or browse the full library of 8,418+ free games.
- Category: math
- Plays on: desktop & mobile browsers
- Price: free
- Best for: Short strategic sessions you can pause any time.
How to play 2048
2048 is a number-merging puzzle on a four-by-four grid. Slide all the tiles in one direction with the arrow keys or a swipe, and when two tiles with the same number touch they merge into one with double the value. After every move a new small tile appears. You win by building a tile that reads 2048, though you can keep playing for higher.
The game ends when the board is full and no merges are left. That makes the real puzzle about space: you want to keep the grid tidy while you build one large tile.
Tips for 2048
- Pick a corner for your biggest tile and never move it out. Use three of the four directions and avoid the fourth.
- Build your tiles in a snake-like order so each row feeds into the next, such as a descending chain along the top row.
- Do not chase small merges that scatter your layout. A tidy board is worth more than a quick merge.
- If you are forced to move in the direction you were avoiding, do it with care and watch where your big tile lands.
Featured in: Best puzzle games