How to play Cross 21
Cross 21 is a card puzzle with blackjack counting. Every turn you get three pieces of one, two or three cards. Turn a piece, then drag it onto empty spots of the 6x6 board. Every row and every column is a hand: aces count 11 (or 1 when 11 would go over), face cards count 10, and a line that adds up to exactly 21 is cleared and scores the value of its cards. Two cards at 21, an ace and a ten, make a blackjack.
Go over 21 and the line is bust: its cards are destroyed and their spots are blocked until a 21 is cleared right next to them. Clearing several lines at once, or a blackjack, earns tokens, and tokens buy the three power-ups: Hammer removes a card, Joker makes the row and column of an empty spot count as 21, and Sweep frees a blocked spot.
The more cards you clear, the higher the level (1 to 11) and the fewer single cards you are dealt, and from level 8 the running totals are no longer shown while you drag. The game ends when none of the three pieces fits; an optional video gives a free power-up so you can keep going. Your best score is saved.
Controls
Drag a piece onto the board, the arrow button turns it. Keys: 1 2 3 pick, R turn, arrows, Enter drop, Q W E power-ups, P pause
Drag a piece onto the board. Tap the arrow button to turn it. Tap a power-up, then tap its target.
FAQ
How do I clear a line?
Make a row or column add up to exactly 21. Aces count 11, or 1 when 11 would go over, and face cards count 10. The cleared cards give you their value as points.
What happens when a line goes over 21?
It is bust: its cards are destroyed (no points) and their spots are blocked. A spot is freed again when a 21 is cleared next to it, or with the Sweep power-up.
How do I get tokens and power-ups?
A move that makes a 21 pays 1 token (2 for a blackjack), several lines at once pay more, and a new best score pays 5. Five tokens buy one Hammer, Joker or Sweep. You start with 3 of each.
Can I continue when nothing fits?
The game ends when none of the three pieces can be placed, even after turning them. If a video is available you can watch it for a free power-up and keep playing.
Is Cross 21 free?
Yes. It is free to play in your browser, with no download and no account.
Can I play on my phone?
Yes. It runs on phones, tablets and computers. Drag a piece onto the board. Tap the arrow button to turn it. Tap a power-up, then tap its target.