THE PLAYBOOK · ZRZCH
Learn your way around Gomoku
Make Gomoku your next activity in the game library. Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Look at what changes after your first action.
Try a more deliberate round
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Notice the feedback after each input.
The purpose of your moves
Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
From the start of a round
- 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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
Work through an example
Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Check the stated objective.
Pay attention to this rule
This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. A different version of the game may use a different rule. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
More answers before you play
What is the goal of Gomoku?
Keep this in mind: Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Gomoku?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Gomoku?
The key detail is this: Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves.
When I return, what should I watch out for in Gomoku?
This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules.
Before I begin, what format does Gomoku offer?
For clarity: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For my first round, which play mode does Gomoku use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.