THE PLAYBOOK · DJCFW
How to play Four in a Row
Choose a round of Four in a Row and settle into its rules. Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Look at what changes after your first action. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Something to practise
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. Notice the feedback after each input.
Aim for this result
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Take a moment to understand the current position.
The playing sequence
- Player 1 selects a column.
- The disc falls to that column’s lowest empty cell.
- Player 2 chooses a column, and turns alternate.
- Watch for horizontal, vertical and both diagonal lines.
The controls to know
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
Work through an example
A piece falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four matching pieces in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line win. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Keep the controls nearby.
Pay attention to this rule
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
If you are unsure
For this browser game, what is the goal of Four in a Row?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
When I return, 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 reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?
For clarity: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.
While reading the Guide, 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.
As a new player, which play mode does Four in a Row use?
The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.