Quick answer
Play Astronauts and Crosses like classic noughts and crosses, but use the astronaut and cross pieces from your set. If a piece goes missing, you can order a replacement through the Misplaced Pieces service instead of buying a whole new game.
Why the pieces matter more than the board
Astronauts and Crosses is a compact two-player game, so the pieces do most of the work. Losing one astronaut or cross can make the set unplayable, especially if you do not have spares. That is why Orchard Toys offers individual replacement pieces rather than full games.
The replacement service is not a full product. Each order is for the specific piece you select, and the catalog lists a piece option so you can match what is missing. Check your set before ordering so you ask for the right piece.
Travel-friendly, but keep pieces contained
The small format makes this a natural noughts and crosses travel game for restaurants, waiting rooms, or car trips. The trade-off is that tiny pieces are easy to drop or leave behind. A small zip pouch or the original box insert helps keep the set complete.
If you are packing for a trip, count the pieces before you leave and again before you head home. That quick check is the easiest way to avoid discovering a missing piece weeks later.
When to order a replacement instead of a new game
Order a misplaced piece when you have lost one or two specific pieces and the rest of the set is intact. The catalog price for a single replacement piece is USD 0.65, compared with a catalog comparison price of USD 1.00, so it is a low-cost fix. However, the supplier notes that up to three replacement pieces are free of charge, but a £1.40 postage and packaging fee applies. Free pieces are discounted at checkout, and each additional piece over three costs £1.00. Allow up to two weeks for delivery.
If you have lost most of the set or the board itself is damaged, a replacement piece will not solve the problem. In that case, you need a new game rather than individual pieces.
How to play and replace pieces step by step
- Set out the board and pieces: Place the board between two players and give each player their set of astronaut or cross pieces. Common mistake: mixing the pieces before checking that each player has the correct number. Count each player's pieces before you start so a missing piece does not interrupt the game.
- Choose who goes first: Decide who plays first, then take turns placing one piece on an empty space. The goal is to line up three of your pieces in a row, column, or diagonal. Common mistake: forgetting that pieces stay on the board until the game ends. Agree the starting player before the first move to avoid mid-game arguments.
- Block and win: On each turn, place a piece to try to make three in a row, or block your opponent from doing so. The first player to get three in a row wins. Common mistake: focusing only on your own line and missing an obvious block. Before placing, check whether your opponent has two in a row that you need to block.
- Reset and replay: Clear the board and swap who goes first for the next round. Common mistake: rushing the reset and leaving a piece on the table or floor. Count the pieces back into the box after each game to keep the set complete.
- Order a missing piece: If a piece is lost, go to the Misplaced Pieces listing and select the piece option you need. Note that up to three pieces are free, but a £1.40 postage and packaging fee applies, and additional pieces over three cost £1.00 each. Allow up to two weeks for arrival. Common mistake: ordering a full game when you only need one piece. Check the piece type against your set before ordering so you get the right replacement.
Replacement piece facts
-
Astronauts And Crosses Misplaced Pieces: This listing is for individual replacement pieces, not a full product. Order only the piece you need; the rest of your game stays as it is.
Astronauts And Crosses Misplaced Pieces