GridLock: Complete Rules Guide
A comprehensive guide to mastering Ultimate Tic-Tac-Toe with the GridLock locking mechanism
Introduction to GridLock
GridLock takes the classic Ultimate Tic-Tac-Toe game and adds a strategic locking system that creates new layers of depth and tactical opportunities. This guide will walk you through all aspects of the game, from basic rules to advanced strategies.
GridLock is played on a 3×3 meta-grid where each cell contains another 3×3 grid. Win three small grids in a row to win the game. The twist: your move determines where your opponent plays next, and you can lock cells to block them temporarily.
The locking system adds a unique strategic element not found in traditional Ultimate Tic-Tac-Toe. Players can temporarily block cells from being played, creating new defensive and offensive possibilities.
Basic Rules
1Game Structure
The Board
- •A 3×3 meta-grid where each cell contains a 3×3 small grid
- •9 small grids with 9 cells each (81 total cells)
- •Win small grids by getting 3 in a row
- •Win the game by winning 3 small grids in a row
The complete GridLock board with 9 small grids
2Movement Rules
Linked Play
- •Your move in a small grid determines which small grid your opponent must play in next
- •If you play in the top-right cell, your opponent must play in the top-right grid
- •If sent to a completed grid (won or drawn), your opponent can play in any open grid
- •First move of the game can be in any cell of any grid
Playing in position 3 of grid 5 sends opponent to grid 3 (highlighted)
3Last Move Indicator
Tracking Moves
- •The last move is highlighted with a yellow ring
- •The active grid where the next player must play is highlighted with a blue border
- •These visual indicators help you track the flow of the game and plan ahead
Last move
Active grid
The Lock System
The locking system is what makes GridLock unique. Players can temporarily block cells from being played, adding a new strategic dimension to the game.
How Locks Work
Lock Mechanics
- •Each player starts with 3 locks
- •Instead of placing a mark, you can use a lock action
- •Locked cells cannot be played for 3 turns
- •Lock timer decreases by 1 each turn
- •Win a small grid to earn an additional lock
Just locked
1 turn passed
2 turns passed
Lock countdown visualization - numbers indicate turns remaining
Strategic Use of Locks
When to Use Locks
- •Block an opponent's winning move in a small grid
- •Prevent being sent to an unfavorable grid
- •Delay your opponent's progress in a critical grid
- •Create a fork situation that's difficult to defend
Lock Economy
- •Locks are a limited resource - use them wisely
- •Winning small grids replenishes your locks
- •Don't hoard locks if there's a strategic opportunity
- •Locks can create momentum shifts in the game
Advanced Features & Game Modes
- •Three difficulty levels: Easy, Medium, Hard
- •Easy AI makes basic moves with occasional locks
- •Medium AI plans moves ahead and uses locks strategically
- •Hard AI uses advanced strategies and optimal lock usage
Advanced Strategies & Tips
Master-Level Tactics
Board Control
- •Control the center grid whenever possible
- •Corner grids are more valuable than edge grids
- •Try to send opponents to completed grids so they lose their targeting advantage
- •Plan two moves ahead - where will your move force your opponent?
Lock Strategy
- •Save at least one lock for critical defensive situations
- •Use locks to create fork situations where you threaten two grids
- •Lock key cells in your opponent's strongest grid to slow them down
- •Time your locks for maximum impact - they only last 3 turns
Common Patterns & Scenarios
The Corner Trap
If you control two corner grids, you can often force your opponent into a no-win situation by using your locks and move placement strategically. This creates a fork situation at the meta-level.
To execute: Win two corner grids, then use locks to block key cells in the connecting edge grids, forcing your opponent to play elsewhere while you secure the third corner.
The Center Domination
The center grid connects to every other grid on the board, making it the most valuable strategic position. Controlling the center gives you flexible options for your next move.
To execute: Prioritize winning the center grid early. Use locks to block critical cells when your opponent threatens to win it. Once you control the center, you can threaten multiple grids at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if all cells in a grid are locked?
If all remaining cells in a grid are locked, the grid is considered temporarily unplayable. The player can choose to play in any unlocked grid. As locks expire, cells will become available again.
Can I win a small grid with just two marks if my opponent's third spot is locked?
No. You still need three in a row to win a small grid. A locked cell is temporarily unplayable, but it doesn't count as a mark for either player. You'll need to wait for the lock to expire or find another path to victory.
What's the maximum number of locks I can have?
There is no hard cap on the number of locks you can accumulate. Each time you win a small grid, you earn an additional lock. Theoretically, you could earn up to 8 additional locks (one for each small grid you win), giving you a maximum of 11 locks in a game.
Can I lock a cell in a grid that's already won?
No. Once a small grid is won or drawn, no further moves (including locks) can be placed in that grid. You can only lock cells in active grids with available spaces.