Game guide · HNSZDS
Four in a Row: rules and examples
Try Four in a Row at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Look at what changes after your first action. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.
A focus for your next round
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 challenge in front of you
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Take a moment to understand the current position.
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.
The controls to know
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Check any mode label before starting.
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. Read the matching step again.
Watch out for this
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
More answers before you play
When I return, 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
Before I begin, 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.
For this browser game, 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.
While reading the Guide, what format does Four in a Row offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
While reading the Guide, where should I start with Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: Player 1 selects a column.
For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?
For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
As a new player, how can I find Four in a Row again?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
While learning, how do I report an issue with Four in a Row?
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.