Skip to content
MINDONGYL

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Four in a Row

Play Four in a Row ↗

Game guide · MINDONGYL

The Four in a Row playbook

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. 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.

An idea for your next attempt

Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Notice the feedback after each input.

Your objective

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. Check the rules when you are unsure.

Start here and follow along

  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.

Getting comfortable with the controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. A new-round button replaces the current round.

See the idea in action

A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Keep the controls nearby.

A mistake to avoid

Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Compare the situation with the worked example. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

A few questions answered

As a new player, what is the goal of Four in a Row?

Here is the relevant explanation: Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw.

For this browser game, how do I control Four in a Row?

Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

As a new player, 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 a quick reminder, 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.

As a new player, 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.

While reading the Guide, which play mode does Four in a Row use?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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 a quick reminder, where should I start with Four in a Row?

The key detail is this: Player 1 selects a column.

Do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?

No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

While reading the Guide, how can I find Four in a Row again?

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

For my first round, how do I report an issue with Four in a Row?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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)