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BDPSFJS

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Four in a Row

Play Four in a Row ↗

Game guide · BDPSFJS

Know the goal in Four in a Row

Take a moment with Four in a Row before moving to another game. Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Use the example below to understand a decision. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

Give this approach a try

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Make the next step deliberately.

What you need to achieve

Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. The example below illustrates a decision.

Start here and follow along

  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.

Making selections and moves

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

An example before you play

A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Verify the rule before continuing.

An important reminder

Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.

Read these answers for extra help

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.

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

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

For my first round, what example helps explain Four in a Row?

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

For my first round, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?

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

While learning, 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?

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.

For a quick reminder, where should I start with Four in a Row?

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

For this browser game, 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.

When I return, 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.

As a new player, how do I report an issue with Four in a Row?

For clarity: 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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