Game guide · XUEWEIBA
Understand the basics 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. 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.
Take a closer look while playing
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your objective
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Check the rules when you are unsure.
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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Look at the feedback after the action.
An example to follow
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. Verify the rule before continuing.
Pay attention to this rule
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
More answers before you play
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.
Before I begin, how do I control Four in a Row?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
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.
As a new player, 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 reading the Guide, what format does Four in a Row offer?
For clarity: 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.
For my first round, where should I start with Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: Player 1 selects a column.
When I return, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
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.
Before I begin, 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.