Skip to content
ITCGT

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Four in a Row

Play Four in a Row ↗

Game guide · ITCGT

Your guide to Four in a Row

Read the aim of Four in a Row, then make your first move. Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

An idea for your next attempt

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Use the example to check your reasoning.

The objective of a round

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. Start with a deliberate move.

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.

How to use the controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.

Put the rules into context

A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Check the stated objective.

Where a round can go wrong

Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.

Read these answers for extra help

For my first round, 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.

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

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

While learning, what example helps explain Four in a Row?

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

What should I watch out for in Four in a Row?

Keep this in mind: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.

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.

While learning, which play mode does Four in a Row 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.

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

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

As a new player, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?

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

How can I find Four in a Row again?

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

For a quick reminder, 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)