Skip to content
SYCX2ZTHE EVERYDAY PLAY CLUB

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Four in a Row

Play Four in a Row ↗

THE PLAYBOOK · SYCX2Z

How to play Four in a Row

Start Four in a Row by looking at the playing area and its controls. Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Use the example below to understand a decision. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Look at what changes after your first action.

Notice the feedback

Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Keep the objective visible.

Your goal

Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Review the board or playing area as it changes.

Step by step

  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.

Controls

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.

A useful example

A piece falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four matching pieces in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line win. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Look for the relevant detail.

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

What is the goal of Four in a Row?

The key detail is this: Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw.

As a new player, how do I control Four in a Row?

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

On this playing page, what example helps explain Four in a Row?

Keep this in mind: A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column.

What should I watch out for in Four in a Row?

The key detail is this: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.

For this browser game, 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 this browser game, which play mode does Four in a Row use?

Keep this in mind: 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)