THE PLAYBOOK · CQXSJINPENG
How to play Four in a Row
Open Four in a Row, check the instructions and begin a round. Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Keep the aim in sight
Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Take a moment to understand the current position.
Step by step
- Player 1 selects a column.
- The disc falls to that column’s lowest empty cell.
- Player 2 chooses a column, and turns alternate.
- Watch for horizontal, vertical and both diagonal lines.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
A useful example
A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Notice the change in the playing area.
Watch out for this
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Common questions
On this playing page, what is the goal of Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw.
While learning, how do I control Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
On this playing page, what example helps explain Four in a Row?
Here is the relevant explanation: A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.
For this browser game, what format does Four in a Row offer?
For clarity: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Before I begin, which play mode does Four in a Row use?
The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.