Connect Four (Connect 4)

How to Play Connect Four

Connect Four, also known as Connect 4, is a two-player strategy game played on a vertical 7-column by 6-row grid. Players take turns dropping one disc into a column. Because of gravity, each disc lands in the lowest available space.

Your goal is to connect four of your own discs in an uninterrupted line before your opponent does. The line can run horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. If the board fills up without either player making four in a row, the game is a draw.

Connect Four Rules

1. Players take turns placing one disc at a time.
2. Choose a column that is not full.
3. Your disc falls to the lowest open position in that column.
4. Make a line of four matching discs horizontally, vertically, or diagonally to win.
5. Block your opponent when they are close to completing a line.
6. If all 42 spaces are filled without a winning line, the game ends in a draw.

Connect Four Strategy

The rules are simple, but good moves require planning. The center column is especially important because it contributes to more possible four-disc lines than the outside columns. At the same time, watch for immediate threats from your opponent before building your own.

One of the strongest tactical ideas is a double threat: create two possible winning moves so your opponent cannot block both. Also think about where each disc will land and which positions your move makes available on the next turn.

Connect Four or Connect 4?

Connect Four and Connect 4 refer to the same classic game. You may also see the generic term Four in a Row used for Connect-Four-style games. Some games with similar names are variants with different mechanics, so they should not be confused with the classic rules.

Connect Four FAQ

How many players can play Connect Four?

The classic Connect Four game is designed for two players, who take turns dropping their discs into the grid.

Can you win Connect Four diagonally?

Yes. A winning line can be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal.

What happens when the Connect Four board is full?

If all 42 spaces are occupied and neither player has connected four, the game is a draw.

Is Connect Four the same as Connect 4?

Yes. Connect 4 is the common alternate spelling of Connect Four. The phrase Four in a Row can also describe the same basic style of game, although it can refer more broadly to similar games with different rules.

Is Connect Four solved?

Yes. Connect Four has been mathematically solved, meaning perfect play gives the first player a forced win. You do not need to know the complete solution to enjoy the game, though: finding threats, blocking your opponent, and planning several moves ahead are enough to make each round challenging.