Hex is a classic two-player abstract strategy board game that was independently invented by Piet Hein in 1942 and John Nash in 1948. It is played on a hexagonal grid, usually with dimensions of 11x11, though the board size can vary. Each player is assigned a color, typically red and blue, and they take turns placing a stone of their color on an empty hexagon. The objective of the game is to form an unbroken chain of one's own stones connecting the opposite sides of the board marked by their color.

The beauty of Hex lies in its simplicity and deep strategic complexity. Despite the straightforward rules, the game offers a rich landscape of tactical possibilities and challenges. It is mathematically significant as well, famously proven by Nash that there is no possibility of a draw in Hex; one player will always have a winning strategy.

Hex has garnered a dedicated following among mathematicians, game enthusiasts, and puzzle solvers. Its elegant mechanics make it a staple in game theory and combinatorial game research. Whether played casually or competitively, Hex provides an engaging and thought-provoking experience for players of all skill levels.

Rules for playing Hex (board game):

1. Hex is played by two players on a hexagonal grid of cells.
2. Each player is assigned a color (typically red and blue).
3. Players take turns placing a piece of their color on a single cell within the overall game board.
4. The goal is to connect their assigned sides of the board through a chain of adjacent colored hexagons.
5. There is also a "swap rule" (or pie rule) to compensate for the first player's advantage