general | June 10, 2026

Do dead stones count as points?

Groups that are deemed dead are left on the board (unless surrounded) until the end of the game where they count as prisoners. In fact, each “dead” stone counts as 2 points: one for the prisoner, and one for the space it is occupying.

How do you count points in go?

The intersections or points in Go are worth one point each. Count up the points that you have surrounded with your stones. If you have an area partially surrounded, then it is considered neutral and it does not count for a point.

What is the point of go?

The Object of Go Is to Control Territory At the end of the game, the player who controls the more territory wins the game. We are going to show you how territory is formed in a game on a 9×9 board. Although go is usually played on a 19×19 board, it can also be played on a 9×9 board, or any size board from 5×5 up.

What is a dead stone go?

Dead stones are stones which don’t have the slightest chance of escaping from enemy territory (sometimes, there’s an exception; see comments below). It is assumed by both players that any more moves involving the stones will be futile, and they are removed at the end of the game. Black’s been cornered.

Which color goes first in go?

Black makes the first move, then White, and so on in alternation until the end of the game. Only one stone can be played per move. 2. Stones are played on points on the board.

Is playing Go fun?

But most important for all who play, Go, as a game, is challenging and fun. Because go lends itself to a uniquely reliable system of handicaps, players of widely disparate strengths can enjoy relatively even contests. The game can be a casual pastime for the idle hour — or a way of life.

What is two eyes go?

To be safe from capture, a group of stones must in general have two eyes. This is the primary way to make groups alive (the other, usually less desirable way, is seki). The basic rules of go state that when a group’s last liberty is removed, the group is captured.