How to Play Gomoku

THE PLAYBOOK · HTSIFA

How to play Gomoku

Start Gomoku by looking at the playing area and its controls. Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

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. Make the next step deliberately.

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. Try to explain the aim in your own words.

Step by step

1. Player 1 places the first stone on an empty intersection.
2. Player 2 places a stone and turns alternate.
3. Look for open lines and block your opponent’s threats.
4. A winning line immediately ends the round.

Controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.

A useful example

Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Consider the next action carefully.

Watch out for this

This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. Compare the situation with the worked example. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.

Common questions