Skip to content
AHOPENG

Same-device two players · FREE PLAY

Four in a Row

Read the rules ↓
Board games
Choose your controls and enjoy a free round.
No account neededRules & controls →

Game guide · AHOPENG

Four in a Row: instructions and practice

Make Four in a Row your next activity in the game library. 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.

An idea for your next attempt

When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Refer to the controls when needed.

Your goal

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.

The playing sequence

  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.

Keyboard and screen controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Look at the feedback after the action.

Try this example

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. Keep the game’s format in mind.

Check this before moving on

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.

Questions that come up during play

While reading the Guide, 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.

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.

On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?

Here is the relevant explanation: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.

For a quick reminder, 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.

Which play mode does Four in a Row use?

Keep this in mind: 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 this browser game, where should I start with Four in a Row?

Keep this in mind: Player 1 selects a column.

On this playing page, 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.

Before I begin, how can I find Four in a Row again?

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

While reading the Guide, 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.

Games

Your next stop in the library

View all games
Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)