Game guide · VISITPHONE
The essentials of playing Four in a Row
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. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Practice beyond the first move
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Refer to the controls when needed.
The purpose of your moves
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. The example below illustrates a decision.
The playing sequence
- 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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. A new-round button replaces the current round.
See the idea in action
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. Verify the rule before continuing.
One detail worth checking
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. A different version of the game may use a different rule. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Helpful answers for players
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.
While learning, how do I control Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column.
When I return, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: Selecting a full column does not use your turn.
On this playing page, what format does Four in a Row offer?
Keep this in mind: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
While learning, 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?
For clarity: Player 1 selects a column.
Before I begin, do I need an account or a payment for Four in a Row?
For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
Before I begin, 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.
As a new player, how do I report an issue with Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: 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.