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RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Four in a Row

Play Four in a Row ↗

Game guide · 4008007786

Four in a Row: learn through an example

Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Four in a Row. Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Something to practise

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Notice the feedback after each input.

Your objective

Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Check the rules when you are unsure.

Making your moves

  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.

Your inputs

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Use one clear input at a time.

An example before you play

A piece falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four matching pieces in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line win. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Notice the change in the playing area.

One detail worth checking

Selecting a full column does not use your turn. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Read these answers for extra help

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.

For a quick reminder, how do I control Four in a Row?

Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

For a quick reminder, 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.

On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?

For clarity: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.

As a new player, what format does Four in a Row offer?

The key detail is this: 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 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.

While reading the Guide, where should I start with Four in a Row?

The key detail is this: Player 1 selects a column.

While reading the Guide, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?

For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For this browser game, 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.

Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Four in a Row?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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.

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