How to Play Gomoku

THE PLAYBOOK · RUIQIWJ

How to play Gomoku

Choose a round of Gomoku and settle into its rules. Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. 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. Keep the objective visible.

Your goal

Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.

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. Check any mode label before starting.

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. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Common questions