Go is the oldest board game still played in its original form, invented in China more than 2,500 years ago and known as Weiqi in China, Baduk in Korea and Igo in Japan. Two players take turns placing black and white stones on the intersections of a grid, trying to surround more territory than their opponent while capturing enemy groups. The rules fit on a postcard, yet Go has more possible positions than atoms in the observable universe, which is why it was the last classic game to fall to artificial intelligence. This free online Go game on Funje lets you play on 9x9, 13x13 and full 19x19 boards against real opponents or adjustable AI, with ranked matchmaking, handicap stones, private rooms for friends, move history and chat. No download, no account required: open the page and start playing Go in your browser on desktop or mobile.

How to Play Go

1. Black plays first. Players alternate placing one stone on any empty intersection.
2. Stones do not move once placed, but they can be captured.
3. A group of stones is captured and removed when all its adjacent empty points (liberties) are occupied by the opponent.
4. You may not place a stone where it would have no liberties, unless the move captures enemy stones.
5. The ko rule prevents immediately recapturing a single stone in a way that repeats the previous board position.
6. The game ends when both players pass in a row.
7. Score your territory (empty points surrounded only by your stones) plus captured stones. White receives komi, usually 6.5 or 7.5 points, to offset Black moving first. The higher score wins.

Game Modes and Features

• 9x9, 13x13 and 19x19 board sizes
• Ranked online matchmaking with Elo-style ratings
• AI opponents from beginner to strong
• Handicap stones for balanced games between different skill levels
• Private rooms to play Go with friends by link
• Japanese and Chinese scoring options
• Byo-yomi and Fischer time controls
• Move history, undo requests and game review
• In-game chat and resign or pass buttons
• Playable on any browser, phone or tablet

Go Strategy Tips

• Corners first, then sides, then center. Territory is easiest to secure in corners.
• Keep your stones connected. Isolated groups are easy to capture.
• Count liberties before fighting. A group with more liberties wins the capturing race.
• Do not fill your own eyes. Two separate eyes make a group unconditionally alive.
• Beginners should play many fast 9x9 games before moving to 19x19.