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GDFCWJ

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Four in a Row

Play Four in a Row ↗

Game guide · GDFCWJ

Your guide to Four in a Row

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. 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.

Practice beyond the first move

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.

The goal to keep in mind

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.

From the start of a round

  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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. A new-round button replaces the current round.

An example before you play

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. Check the stated objective.

Keep this in mind

Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.

Helpful answers for players

On this playing page, what is the goal of Four in a Row?

Keep this in mind: Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw.

While learning, how do I control Four in a Row?

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

As a new player, what example helps explain Four in a Row?

A piece falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four matching pieces in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line win.

Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?

Here is the relevant explanation: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.

When I return, 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.

When I return, 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.

While learning, where should I start with Four in a Row?

Keep this in mind: Player 1 selects a column.

For my first round, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?

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?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

When I return, 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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