About this template
Merge Tiles is an original, self-contained browser starter. It focuses on directional grid transforms, single-merge rules, and move detection. The interface and game logic live in one HTML file, so you can open the source and trace the interaction from input to screen without setting up a toolchain.
How to play
Use arrow keys, swipe the board, or select a direction button. Equal tiles merge once per move. Use the Start button to begin and Restart to try again. The game does not connect to a server or store a public score.
What is in the download?
The ZIP includes index.html, a quick-start README, and the MIT license. There are no external scripts, fonts, image assets, or package dependencies. Open index.html in a current browser to play; open it in a text editor to make changes.
Make your first change
Change TARGET from 2048 to 512 for a shorter round. Keep the single-merge rule and only spawn a new tile after a move changes the board.
- Save a copy of the original before editing.
- Change one value or rule, reload, and play a full round.
- Try both winning and losing paths. Then check the controls on a smaller screen.
Ideas for your own version
Start with the visual theme: adjust the background, accent color, and title. Next, add a rule that changes a decision the player makes. Prefer one well-tested mechanic over several unfinished systems. Keep a short note beside each new setting so the next person can understand why it exists.
Plan around one corner
Keep your largest number in a corner and build smaller pairs alongside it. A move that changes nothing does not add a tile. Each successful move adds a 2, with a small chance of a 4. Merging adds the resulting tile value to your score.
How the round ends
Reach 2048 to complete the round. If the board is full and no neighboring values can merge, the round ends. Restart creates a fresh board with two tiles. There is no move timer, so take time to inspect all four directions.
Before you publish
This is a learning starter, not a full game engine. It has no network multiplayer, cloud saving, or commercial art pack. Add your own polish, test your target browsers, and follow the publishing checklist. The included code can be adapted for personal or commercial projects under the MIT license.