THE PLAYBOOK · DP2SX
Four in a Row: rules and examples
Try Four in a Row at your own pace and keep its objective in view. 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. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Give this approach a try
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Notice the feedback after each input.
The purpose of your moves
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Start with a deliberate move.
A walkthrough of the rules
- 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.
Choosing and moving on screen
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
Learn from a sample situation
A piece falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four matching pieces in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line win. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Keep the controls nearby.
Notice this detail
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Compare the situation with the worked example. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Answers about the rules and controls
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.
As a new player, 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.
Before I begin, 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.
On this playing page, which play mode does Four in a Row use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.