THE PLAYBOOK · ZXZXMR
How to play 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. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Keep the aim in sight
Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules. Refer to the controls when needed.
Your goal
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
Step by step
- 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.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. A new-round button replaces the current round.
A useful 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. Keep the controls nearby.
Watch out for this
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Common questions
For my first round, what is the goal of Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw.
As a new player, how do I control Four in a Row?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
As a new player, what example helps explain Four in a Row?
For clarity: A piece falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four matching pieces in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line win.
Before I begin, 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.
What format does Four in a Row offer?
The key detail is this: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Before I begin, which play mode does Four in a Row use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
