Why is 2048 addictive?
CNet thinks it knows.
The new viral gaming sensation, which asks players to merge little tiles to build bigger numbers - but which is also, somehow, the most insanely arresting thing to do on a smartphone since Flappy Bird first Flapped - is looking like a genuine phenomenon.
Take a look at the video above to find out just what makes it so entertaining.
Meanwhile here are our top tips for getting a high(er) score:
1. Take It Slow
2048 is so easy to play, you might get into the habit of tearing through games without even really paying attention to what you're doing. That's a bad idea. You want to go slow - there's no penalty for thinking your moves through after all. Think about where the blocks are going to come in and how you'll deploy it.
2: Set Up Lines
So '2048' is a game about chains, and so the more pairs you have in a line the better. Try to set up whole lines of matches so that you can wait to deploy them - and build up big combos. It won't affect your score - but it will affect how much space you have and how you're able to combine to really big cards.
3. Work the corners.
If you constantly move your tiles into one corner, the smaller tiles will naturally fall into place next to each other - and your big card won't be so troublesome.
In fact, you might want to try not pressing up at all unless you absolutely need to. Extreme, but it works.
4. Stack up columns to move your big pieces into position
Eventually you'll end up with 64s or 128s in opposite corners - and there's nothing more frustrating. So try to set up columns above those numbers that can rapidly combine, so you can move them back together.
5. Breathe.
Seriously, relax, it's just a game.
6. It's not always a '2'…
Usually your new tiles are '2's - but not always. Sometimes they're '4's - so stay alert.
7. When in doubt, clear.
If you're blocked off and your strategies aren't working, just start clearing. Make space, give yourself some room, and regroup. You'll be surprised how much better things look with a few clear blocks around.
8. Make your own.
It's fun! At least, it's more fun than getting stuck, again, with two '128's in opposite corners with no hope of rescue. Gagh.