THE PLAYBOOK · XTTAOBAO
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. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Focus on one rule
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Check the rules when you are unsure.
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. Look at the feedback after the action.
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. Notice the change in the playing area.
Watch out for this
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. A different version of the game may use a different rule. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Common questions
On this playing page, what is the goal of Four in a Row?
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw.
For my first round, how do I control Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: 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?
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 a quick reminder, 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.