Game guide · CH12372
The essentials of playing 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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Look at what changes after your first action.
Something to practise
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Use the example to check your reasoning.
What you are aiming for
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
Follow these playing steps
- 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.
How your actions work
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Look at the feedback after the action.
An example to follow
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.
A common point of confusion
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Helpful answers for players
When I return, 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.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, 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.
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 learning, what format does Four in a Row offer?
Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Before I begin, 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.
On this playing page, where should I start with Four in a Row?
For clarity: Player 1 selects a column.
As a new player, 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.
As a new player, 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.
While learning, 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.