Game guide · XBZJZX
Four in a Row: a guide for your next round
Choose a round of Four in a Row and settle into its rules. 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. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Try a more deliberate round
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Use the example to check your reasoning.
The challenge in front of you
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
How to proceed
- 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.
Using the playing area
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
See the idea in action
A piece falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four matching pieces in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line win. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Check the stated objective.
Watch out for this
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round.
Questions that come up during play
As a new player, what is the goal of Four in a Row?
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Four in a Row?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column.
While learning, 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 my first round, what format does Four in a Row offer?
Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For a quick reminder, 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.
Before I begin, where should I start with Four in a Row?
Player 1 selects a column.
For this browser game, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?
Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
While reading the Guide, how can I find Four in a Row again?
Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
How do I report an issue with Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.