THE PLAYBOOK · ADAMMBS
How to play Four in a Row
Bring your attention to one round of Four in a Row. Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.
A careful first round
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Notice the feedback after each input.
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. Review the board or playing area as it changes.
Step by step
- 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.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use one clear input at a time.
A useful 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.
Watch out for this
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Common questions
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Four in a Row?
For clarity: Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Four in a Row?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For this browser game, 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 learning, 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.
For this browser game, 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.
