Learn Go — From Zero to Your First Win
Go takes minutes to learn and a lifetime to master. This page is a simple, ordered path: learn the handful of rules, play short 9×9 games against a gentle AI, and pick up the few ideas that matter most. No account, no pressure — just practice.
Start learning on the board
No account required — start in seconds.
Step 1 — Learn the rules (5 minutes)
Players alternate placing stones; Black goes first. Surround empty points to make territory and surround enemy stones to capture them. That's the whole game. Our How to Play Go guide and Go Rules page cover every detail in plain language.
Step 2 — Play 9×9 against the Beginner AI
The small board is the best classroom: games are short and captures happen often. Play several, and don't worry about losing — losing games is how everyone learns Go.
Step 3 — Learn the ideas that matter
- Liberties and capturing — keep your groups breathing.
- Two eyes — how a group becomes unconditionally alive.
- Corners first, then sides, then center.
- Don't try to save every stone; trade for something bigger.
Step 4 — Grow into bigger boards
When 9×9 feels comfortable, move up to 13×13 and then the full 19×19. Review your finished games (you can replay them and export SGF) to see where points were won and lost.
Frequently asked questions
- How long does it take to learn Go?
- The rules take about five minutes. You can play your first full game today and keep improving for years — that depth is the appeal.
- What's the best board size to learn on?
- 9×9. Short games and frequent fighting teach the fundamentals fastest before you move up.
- Do I need an account to learn here?
- No. The board is free and open — just start playing and learning.
Ready to play?
Open the board and start a free game now.