Snake Guide, Rules, and Tips
Snake is the arcade classic where every piece of food makes you longer and every mistake ends the run. Steer the snake around the board, eat to grow and score, and avoid crashing into walls or your own tail. The longer you survive, the harder it gets to find safe space.
How to Play
- The snake moves continuously in its current direction.
- Eating food makes the snake one segment longer and adds to your score.
- Hitting a wall or your own body ends the game.
- A yellow item gives a temporary speed boost. Pick a difficulty to set the base speed.
Strategy and Tips
- Stay near the edges early on and keep the center open for later, when the snake is long.
- Move in wide loops instead of sharp zig-zags so you never box yourself in.
- Before turning toward food, check that you will still have a way out afterward.
- Late in a run, follow your own tail; the space it leaves behind is always safe.
Controls
Use the arrow keys or WASD on a keyboard. On phones and tablets, swipe or use the on-screen direction pad. Your high score is saved in this browser.
Background
The idea goes back to the 1976 arcade game Blockade. Snake became a worldwide phenomenon in 1997 when it was preinstalled on Nokia mobile phones, making it one of the most played games of all time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play Snake on my phone?
Yes. Swipe to change direction or use the on-screen direction pad.
Is my high score saved?
Yes. Your best score is stored in this browser, so it is still there next time you visit.
How do I get a higher score?
Plan your route in loops and avoid cutting across the middle. Our Snake high score tips explain safe movement patterns.