---
title: "Hex (9×9)"
slug: 9x9
board: "9×9 rhombus"
players: "2"
parent: hex
order: 2
win: "Connect opposite edges"
special: "Compact board. 81 cells. Quick tactical games."
engine:
  topology:
    type: hex
    shape: rhombus
    rows: 9
    cols: 9
  render:
    cellSize: 24
  players: [black, white]
  setup: ""
---

## Hex (9×9)

{{svg:9x9-board.svg "Hex (9×9) — compact board"}}

A smaller board for quicker games. With 81 cells, games are more tactical than strategic and typically finish in 10-20 minutes. Popular for teaching Hex fundamentals and for rapid-play formats.

### Differences from Standard

Same rules as 11×11 Hex. The reduced board size means that first-player advantage is more pronounced, making the swap rule especially important. Edge templates and ladders are shorter, so positional errors are punished more quickly.

Commonly used on online platforms as a "blitz" format and recommended for beginners learning connection game fundamentals.