Selinger: New article. This is basically the same information that has already been on the BGA "strategy tips" page, but most players overlook it there.

2023-02-18T22:56:51Z

New article. This is basically the same information that has already been on the BGA "strategy tips" page, but most players overlook it there.

New page

Although the rules of Hex are very simple, its strategy is quite rich and has many layers. The good news is that there are many clever and satisfying strategy concepts that can be learned by players of all levels.

This Wiki contains a lot of information, and it can be overwhelming for players to decide what to read first and what skills to work on. This page attempts to give an organized roadmap of Hex strategy, by listing various skills in the approximate order in which players should learn them.

The skills are organized by approximate [[Elo rating|Elo]] level. The Elo ratings follow the system of [[Board Game Arena]], and are calibrated so that beginners are at level 0-100, and the strongest players are in the 900 range. The following list is based on an analysis of actual games played by players of different levels, and reflects the strategies that are commonly used at each level.

== Strategy concepts by level ==

=== Beginners ===

To reach level 100, you should learn about templates, especially the [[bridge]] and the [[ziggurat]]. You should also learn basic [[blocking]]. You might try a few dozen of Matthew Seymour's [http://www.mseymour.ca/hex_puzzle/ Hex puzzles].

=== Average players ===

To reach level 200, you should learn about [[ladder handling]], especially [[ladder escape]]s. You should learn more [[Edge_templates_everybody_should_know|templates]]. You should solve more [http://www.mseymour.ca/hex_puzzle/ Hex puzzles].

=== Good players ===

To reach level 300, you should learn about [[Climbing|pivoting and climbing]]. You should use template intrusions to steal territory and help you connect. You should recognize what is connected and what is not, to avoid defending the indefensible or attacking what is solid. You should also learn [[Swap|when to swap]].

=== Strong players ===

To reach level 400, you should learn some advanced ways of connecting, such as [[switchback]]s, [[foldback]]s, and [[Tom's move]]. You should learn to [[Foiling|foil]], and especially, how to counter fishing moves. You should start to use [[Minimax|minimaxing]], such as building [[Wall|walls]]. You should play [[corner move]]s in the opening.

To reach level 500, you should consistently use [[Minimax|minimaxing]], choosing from among several possible moves to gain small advantages. You should play [[Tidiness|tidily]]. You should know when to respond locally and when to play elsewhere. You should learn more theory, such as the [[mustplay region]] and [[ladder creation template]]s. You should play [[joseki]]s.

=== Experts and beyond ===

To reach level 600, you should study different [[opening]]s and the best responses to them. You should know how to use [[flank]]s and [[pivoting template]]s. You should learn about [[Captured_cell|capture]] and [[Dominated_cell|domination]] to play locally optimal moves.

To go beyond level 600, you no longer need this roadmap. Read this Wiki. Learn from players who are better than you. Learn from computers. Play a lot and watch a lot of games. Develop your own tactics.

== Resources ==

* Matthew Seymour's online book [http://www.mseymour.ca/hex_book/ Hex: A Strategy Guide]. A good starting point for learning Hex strategy.

* Matthew Seymour's [http://www.mseymour.ca/hex_puzzle/ Hex puzzles]. Fun and very addictive! You will become a better player.

* This [https://www.hexwiki.net/ HexWiki]. Too much information for beginners, as it is difficult to know what to read first. It is better to start with Seymour's book. However, the Wiki is a great resource once you've mastered the basics.

Strategy roadmap - Revision history

Selinger: New article. This is basically the same information that has already been on the BGA "strategy tips" page, but most players overlook it there.