Easy to learn, surprisingly deep, and perfect for a quick brain workout: Four in a Row is the disc-dropping strategy game that's hooked players for generations. You go up against a computer opponent that plays smart, so every move counts. Can you connect four before it does?
How to play Four in a Row
In Four in a Row, you and the computer take turns dropping discs into a grid that's 7 columns wide and 6 rows tall. You play the red discs, the computer plays yellow. Because of gravity, each disc falls to the lowest open slot in the column you choose, so you can't place a piece just anywhere.
The goal is to line up four of your red discs in a row: horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. The first player to make four in a row wins. Fill the board with no four-in-a-row and it's a draw.
Controls for keyboard and mobile
This one couldn't be simpler:
- Mouse: click the column where you want your disc to drop.
- Touch: tap a column on your phone or tablet.
The disc falls into place automatically, then it's the computer's turn. No fiddly buttons, no complicated inputs, just pick a column and go.
Tips and strategy
The computer is no pushover. It actively takes wins when it can, blocks your winning moves, and favors the center of the board. Beating it means thinking ahead:
- Take the center early. The middle column is part of the most possible winning lines, so claiming it gives you more options.
- Build double threats. Set up two ways to win at once. The computer can only block one, so the other wins the game.
- Watch for its three-in-a-rows. Since the AI blocks and attacks, scan every turn for its three connected yellows and shut them down before it's too late.
- Think vertically and diagonally too. It's easy to fixate on rows. Diagonal connect-fours often catch opponents off guard.
Plan two moves ahead and you'll start turning losses into wins.
What makes it so fun
Four in a Row is the perfect blend of simple rules and real strategy. Matches are quick, but each one is a satisfying little duel of wits against an opponent that genuinely tries to beat you. Pulling off a sneaky diagonal or a clever double threat feels fantastic.
If you like head-to-head grid battles, you'll enjoy Tic Tac Toe, the bite-sized classic where every X and O is a tactical decision. And when you want to test a different kind of brainpower, flip over to Memory Match and see how sharp your recall really is.
Pick a column, drop your first red disc, and start scheming. It's free, plays instantly in your browser, and is always ready for one more round against the computer.
