Game guide · 05MC
Four in a Row: a guide for your next round
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. Use the example below to understand a decision. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Give this approach a try
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.
Aim for this result
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. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
From the start of a round
- 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 to interact with the game
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
Learn from a sample situation
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. Keep the game’s format in mind.
An important reminder
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Questions that come up during play
While reading the Guide, 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.
While learning, how do I control Four in a Row?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?
For clarity: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.
When I return, what format does Four in a Row offer?
Keep this in mind: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
While learning, 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.
Before I begin, where should I start with Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: Player 1 selects a column.
Before I begin, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
For my first round, how can I find Four in a Row again?
The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
When I return, 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.
