THE PLAYBOOK · DAIKUANZ
Four in a Row: how a round works
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. Use the example below to understand a decision. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Use the example below to understand a decision.
An idea for your next attempt
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your goal
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Keep the controls in easy reach.
How a round unfolds
- 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.
How to interact with the game
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
A closer look at one example
A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Take a moment to compare.
Where a round can go wrong
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.
If you are unsure
What is the goal of Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw.
When I return, how do I control Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, 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.
For my first round, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.
For this browser game, what format does Four in a Row offer?
The key detail is this: 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 mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.