THE PLAYBOOK · SHANGHAIJXC
Read before your next round of Four in a Row
Start Four in a Row by looking at the playing area and its controls. 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. Check the rule that explains your first action. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Practice with a purpose
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
Work through the instructions
- 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.
Making selections and moves
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
Try this example
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.
Avoid this misunderstanding
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Read these answers for extra help
While learning, what is the goal of Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: 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?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Four in a Row?
For clarity: A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.
Before I begin, what format does Four in a Row offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
As a new player, 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.
