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BDPSFJS

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Gomoku

Play Gomoku ↗

Game guide · BDPSFJS

Learn the rules of Gomoku

Try Gomoku at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Look at what changes after your first action.

A focus for your next round

After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Refer to the controls when needed.

Your goal

Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.

A walkthrough of the rules

  1. Player 1 places the first stone on an empty intersection.
  2. Player 2 places a stone and turns alternate.
  3. Look for open lines and block your opponent’s threats.
  4. A winning line immediately ends the round.

Keyboard and screen controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.

An example to follow

Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Keep the game’s format in mind.

A common point of confusion

This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. Check the rule before repeating the action. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.

Game-specific help

For my first round, what is the goal of Gomoku?

Here is the relevant explanation: Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw.

Before I begin, how do I control Gomoku?

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

For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Gomoku?

The key detail is this: Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves.

While learning, what should I watch out for in Gomoku?

Here is the relevant explanation: This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules.

For this browser game, what format does Gomoku offer?

For clarity: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.

While reading the Guide, which play mode does Gomoku use?

For clarity: 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 Gomoku?

Here is the relevant explanation: Player 1 places the first stone on an empty intersection.

For my first round, do I need an account or a payment for Gomoku?

Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For this browser game, how can I find Gomoku 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 Gomoku?

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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