THE PLAYBOOK · ZXZXMR
How to play Gomoku
Read the aim of Gomoku, then make your first move. Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Use the example below to understand a decision. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Make the controls familiar
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Notice how the game responds to your input.
Step by step
- Player 1 places the first stone on an empty intersection.
- Player 2 places a stone and turns alternate.
- Look for open lines and block your opponent’s threats.
- A winning line immediately ends the round.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Use one clear input at a time.
A useful example
Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Verify the rule before continuing.
Watch out for this
This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. Check the rule before repeating the action. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Common questions
On this playing page, what is the goal of Gomoku?
Here is the relevant explanation: Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw.
When I return, how do I control Gomoku?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
On this playing page, what example helps explain Gomoku?
Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Gomoku?
Keep this in mind: This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules.
While learning, what format does Gomoku 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 Gomoku 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.
