Game guide · SBBEN
Four in a Row: rules and examples
Open Four in a Row, check the instructions and begin a round. 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.
A focus for your next round
Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
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. Take a moment to understand the current position.
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 to use the controls
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.
Try this example
A piece falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four matching pieces in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line win. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Keep the controls nearby.
Check this before moving on
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Read these answers for extra help
For a quick reminder, 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.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Four in a Row?
Here is the relevant explanation: A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column.
As a new player, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?
For clarity: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.
Before I begin, 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.
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.
While reading the Guide, where should I start with Four in a Row?
For clarity: Player 1 selects a column.
When I return, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
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?
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.
