Skip to content
CQMELISSA

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Four in a Row

Play Four in a Row ↗

Game guide · CQMELISSA

Making your first moves in 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. Use the example below to understand a decision. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.

Give this approach a try

Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Refer to the controls when needed.

The purpose of your moves

Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. The example below illustrates a decision.

Step by step

  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.

Using the playing area

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Look at the feedback after the action.

One way to understand the rules

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. Take a moment to compare.

Pay attention to this rule

Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Read these answers for extra help

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.

For a quick reminder, how do I control Four in a Row?

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

What example helps explain Four in a Row?

Here is the relevant explanation: A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column.

While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?

Selecting a full column does not use your turn.

When I return, 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.

When I return, 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 my first round, where should I start with Four in a Row?

For clarity: Player 1 selects a column.

For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For this browser game, how can I find Four in a Row again?

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

On this playing page, how do I report an issue with Four in a Row?

Keep this in mind: 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)