Skip to content
HRBJFRHG

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Four in a Row

Play Four in a Row ↗

Game guide · HRBJFRHG

The Four in a Row playbook

Four in a Row gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. 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.

Bring this focus to a 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.

Understand the aim

Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.

Making your moves

  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.

Your inputs

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. A new-round button replaces the current round.

A useful example

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. Keep the controls nearby.

An important reminder

Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.

More answers before you play

As a new player, 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.

For my first round, how do I control Four in a Row?

For clarity: 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.

While learning, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?

Selecting a full column does not use your turn.

For my first round, 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.

When I return, which play mode does Four in a Row use?

The key detail is this: 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?

The key detail is this: Player 1 selects a column.

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

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

On this playing page, 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.

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.

Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)