Skip to content
SZQILUFENGTHE EVERYDAY PLAY CLUB

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Four in a Row

Play Four in a Row ↗

THE PLAYBOOK · SZQILUFENG

Play Four in a Row with the rules at hand

Try Four in a Row at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.

Take a closer look while playing

Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Keep the objective visible.

The challenge in front of you

Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Take a moment to understand the current position.

The order of play

  1. Player 1 selects a column.
  2. The disc falls to that column’s lowest empty cell.
  3. Player 2 chooses a column, and turns alternate.
  4. Watch for horizontal, vertical and both diagonal lines.

Choosing and moving on screen

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.

See how the rules apply

A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Consider the next action carefully.

Pay attention to this rule

Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Compare the situation with the worked example. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.

If you are unsure

While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Four in a Row?

For clarity: Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw.

On this playing page, how do I control Four in a Row?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

For a quick reminder, 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.

When I return, 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 a quick reminder, what format does Four in a Row offer?

Keep this in mind: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.

While learning, which play mode does Four in a Row use?

The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

Play More Games (opens in a new tab)