Game guide · XINNINGBAO
Four in a Row: how a round works
Read the aim of Four in a Row, then make your first move. 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. Look at what changes after your first action.
Take a closer look while playing
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Understand the aim
Connect four discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a winner is a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Start with a deliberate move.
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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
One way to understand the rules
A piece falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four matching pieces in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal line win. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Read the matching step again.
Keep this in mind
Selecting a full column does not use your turn. Compare the situation with the worked example. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
If you are unsure
For my first round, 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.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
What example helps explain Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: A diagonal requires support beneath each disc. You cannot drop a disc into the middle of an empty column.
For my first round, what should I watch out for in Four in a Row?
Selecting a full column does not use your turn.
For my first round, what format does Four in a Row offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For a quick reminder, 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.
For my first round, where should I start with Four in a Row?
Keep this in mind: Player 1 selects a column.
Before I begin, 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.
While reading the Guide, 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.
While learning, how do I report an issue with Four in a Row?
For clarity: 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.