Nozoki

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A nozoki (term borrowed from Go) is a forcing move to which opponent has just a single answer to defend against an immediate threat. This situation occurs if one threatens to cut a connection between major groups or key stones of the opponent. The stone causing this threat is called a nozoki.

Sometimes it's hard to tell if a move is forcing, i.e. if the nozoki is correct or wrong. Playing correct nozokis is one of the most sophisticated aspects of Hex strategy.

Example

abcdef123456

In this position, Redr can play 2 correct nozokis — c4 or c3. If Red plays c3, Blue must defend with c4. If Red plays c4, Blue must defend with c3. Otherwise, Blue loses the game.

Notice that moves at a4, a5, f2 and f3 are wrong nozokis. Against a4 or a5, Blue has a choice of playing b5, which potentially improves Blue's position. Similarly, against f2 or f3, Blue should play d2.

Crucial nozoki

Playing nozokis can be very useful. In certain situations, playing a nozoki can make the difference between winning and losing. Consider the following example:

abcdefghi123456789

The only winning move for Red is the nozoki at d6. If Red misses it, the game proceeds as follows and Blue wins:

abcdefghi123456789132546

If Red starts by playing d6 instead, Red wins.

abcdefghi123456789231

See also: