How to play — Nine Slide

What is Nine Slide?

Nine Slide is a strategy puzzle with numbered tiles from 1 to 9. Instead of moving one tile at a time, swipe the entire board up, down, left or right. When two tiles meet, their values determine the result. Each move can bring you closer to a goal, award experience points (XP), or create room for future moves.

1. Slide the entire board

One swipe moves the tiles in the chosen direction. Look for matching numbers and pairs that may collide before you move: your choice affects every tile, not just the one you are watching. New tiles can appear after a move, so do not rely on one empty square remaining available. Plan more than one possible continuation.

2. Matching tiles multiply

When identical tiles merge, multiply their numbers. For example, 3 × 3 = 9. Because 9 is within the board's range, the resulting tile stays in play. This can complete a level that asks you to create a 9 tile.

×=

3. Different tiles add

If the two numbers differ, add them together. For example, 2 + 3 = 5. This may create a tile you need for a later merge, so a small sum can be part of a larger strategy.

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4. Results above 9 turn into XP

Only tiles from 1 to 9 remain on the board. If a combination exceeds 9, it disappears and awards XP equal to its value: 4 + 6 = 10 gives 10 XP, while 9 × 9 = 81 gives 81 XP. This also frees space, but may consume a tile that you need for your current goal.

Remember: results of 9 or less stay as tiles; results above 9 become XP.

5. Four game modes

Target

create the requested numbered tile. Preserve useful combinations rather than chasing XP.

Time

reach your goal before the clock runs out. Make efficient moves without overthinking.

Moves

you have a limited number of swipes; each one should serve a purpose.

XP

collect the required experience, mainly through combinations whose result exceeds 9.

The rules stay the same in every mode, but your priorities change. A good move for XP might be a poor move for Target.

6. Gems, customization and power-ups

Green gems are obtained through game actions and rewards. Gold gems are used for customization, including skins and characters. Purple gems are associated with in-game strategic resources.

Gem rewards from matching high-value tiles start at 7 × 7, and also include 8 × 8 and 9 × 9. Three matches of 7 × 7 or higher in the same game trigger a Gem Streak bonus of 5 extra green gems; it can trigger again as you continue playing. Check the Mine for the available options.

Skins and backgrounds change how the game looks, not how strong your tiles are. Achievements and the evolution journey track your progress.

Frequently asked questions

Why did my tile disappear?

Its combination probably exceeded 9, so the result became XP. Check your experience total after the move.

Do I need a Nine Account?

You can start as a guest. A Nine Account lets you synchronize progress and use online features when available.

How can I make better decisions?

Ask yourself whether this swipe should create the target tile, earn XP, free space or bring two tiles together. Read our strategy guide for more practical decisions.