THE PLAYBOOK · FQ12349
Learn the rules of Four in a Row
Take a moment with Four in a Row before moving to another game. 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. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
A focus for your next round
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Make the next step deliberately.
What the game asks you to do
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Keep the controls in easy reach.
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.
Keyboard and screen controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. A new-round button replaces the current round.
An example before you play
A piece falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four matching pieces in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line win. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Look for the relevant detail.
Where a round can go wrong
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.
Game-specific help
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Four in a Row?
For clarity: 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?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
Before I begin, 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.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.
For my first round, 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?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
