Snake - Rules, History & Strategy Guide

Snake became iconic through early mobile phones and simple computer versions, but the idea is older than that. Its genius is how little it needs: one moving body, one growth rule, and one increasingly crowded board.

Because of that stripped-down design, Snake became one of the clearest lessons in self-created difficulty. The better you do, the less room you have left.

Move the snake across the board, collect food, and avoid collisions with walls or your own body.

1. Choose a direction and keep the snake moving.
2. Collect food to grow longer and increase your score.
3. Plan turns early because the snake cannot stop instantly.
4. Avoid trapping yourself in tight loops as the body expands.
5. Stay alive as long as possible to set a higher score.

• Look two or three turns ahead instead of steering only toward the next food.
• Use broad loops to preserve space when the board is getting crowded.
• Do not enter a narrow corridor unless you already know how you will exit.
• When in doubt, choose survival over a risky food line.

Classic wall-based Snake, wraparound Snake, speed ramps, and obstacle modes all exist. Each version changes how safe the edges are and how aggressively you can route for food.