THE PLAYBOOK · ZOEHERO
Learn the rules of Four in a Row
Four in a Row gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Use the example below to understand a decision. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Give this approach a try
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. Make the next step deliberately.
The objective of a round
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. The example below illustrates a decision.
Making your moves
- 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.
Getting comfortable with the controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Look at the feedback after the action.
Try this example
A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Consider the next action carefully.
Keep this in mind
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.
Answers about the rules and controls
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.
How do I control Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, 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.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?
For clarity: 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.
For my first round, 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.