How to use it
- Choose the size: 4 × 4 for classic 2048, 5 × 5 for 2048 Deluxe.
- Copy your grid: select a value in the palette, then click the matching cells.
- Click "Find the best move": in one or two seconds, the assistant shows the recommended direction, its explanation and a comparison of all four moves.
- Keep playing: "Play this move on the grid" applies the slide. Add the new tile that appeared in your game, then run the analysis again.
Tip: when the grid has focus, the keyboard arrow keys play the chosen move directly.
How the AI picks a move
The assistant relies on the Expectimax algorithm, a variant of Minimax for games of chance. It alternates two kinds of steps:
- your moves: it tries all four directions and keeps the best;
- chance: for each empty cell, it considers a 2 (90%) or a 4 (10%) appearing and takes the weighted average.
After a few simulated turns, each position is scored by an evaluation function that rewards what good players do: lots of empty cells, ordered rows (monotonicity), pairs ready to merge. These criteria and their weights are inspired by the AI Robert Xiao published in 2014, one of the strongest. The search depth adapts to the available time: the emptier the grid, the further the assistant looks ahead. The maths is detailed in our article on the maths of 2048.
What the solver doesn't do
- It can't predict where the next tile will appear: nobody can, it's random.
- It doesn't handle 2048 Deluxe power-ups (Bomb, Mega Bar…) or the X2 tile.
- It doesn't guarantee a win: it maximises your chances, move after move.
Frequently asked questions
How does the 2048 solver work?
It uses the Expectimax algorithm: it simulates every possible move, then every tile that could appear next (a 2 in 90% of cases, a 4 in 10%), several moves ahead. Each position is scored on proven criteria: empty cells, ordered tiles, possible merges. The move with the best average score is recommended.
Does the solver work on a 5 × 5 grid?
Yes. Choose "5 × 5" above the grid: the analysis adapts to the size of the 2048 Deluxe board.
Is my data sent anywhere?
No. All the calculation happens in your browser: the grid you enter never leaves your device.
Does the solver take 2048 Deluxe power-ups into account?
No, it only analyses slides (up, down, left, right). To know when to use the Bomb, Mega Bar or Second Chance, see the power-ups guide.
Does following the solver guarantee a win?
No. 2048 involves chance: no strategy wins 100% of the time. But following the assistant clearly improves your chances of reaching 2048 and beyond.
To understand the logic behind the advice, also read How to win at 2048: the complete strategy.