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SZWSXS

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Four in a Row

Play Four in a Row ↗

Game guide · SZWSXS

How to play Four in a Row

Bring your attention to one round 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.

Try a more deliberate round

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. Notice the feedback after each input.

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. Keep the controls in easy reach.

A walkthrough of the rules

  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.

How to use the controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

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.

A mistake to avoid

Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.

A few questions answered

On this playing page, 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?

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

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.

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?

For clarity: 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?

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

As a new player, where should I start with Four in a Row?

Here is the relevant explanation: Player 1 selects a column.

On this playing page, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?

The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

While learning, 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?

The key detail is this: 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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