2048
Slide and merge matching number tiles until you create 2048.
2048
Merge Lab · local puzzle run
Swipe the board, or use arrow keys and WASD. No account needed.
Rules
- The game begins with two numbered tiles on a 4×4 board.
- Move every tile together in one direction by pressing an arrow key, using WASD, or swiping the board.
- When two tiles with the same number meet, they merge into one tile worth their combined value.
- A tile can merge only once during a single move.
- Every valid move adds a new 2 or 4 tile to an empty square.
- The usual goal is to create the 2048 tile. You may continue playing after reaching it.
- The game ends when the board is full and no horizontal or vertical pair can merge.
The score increases by the value of every new tile created through a merge.
Controls and basic strategy
Use arrow keys or WASD on a keyboard. On a touch screen, swipe in the direction you want the tiles to move.
Keeping the largest tile in a corner usually makes the board easier to organize. Build a descending row or column beside it and avoid moves that pull the largest tile away without a plan.
A brief history
Italian developer Gabriele Cirulli released 2048 in March 2014. He described it as a clone of 1024, which itself drew inspiration from Threes. The open-source browser game spread quickly and inspired many variations.
Sources: Gabriele Cirulli's official repository and the original 2048 site.
Privacy
The board and score exist only in this browser tab. No account or network request is needed to play.