Four in a Row

puzzle

|💡 Click Column: Drop Disc|🚩 Report Issue

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⚠️ Best experience on a desktop or Chromebook.

🎮 Controls

Click

Column: Drop Disc

Disc

falls to lowest empty slot

Take

turns with opponent

💡 Pro Tips

•Start in the center column whenever possible—it gives the most winning opportunities

•Count to four before each move: can you or your opponent win in the next move?

•Create "forks" where you threaten two four-in-a-rows at once

•Watch the diagonals! Diagonal wins are the easiest to miss

•Sometimes sacrificing a position forces your opponent into a bad move

About Four in a Row

Four in a Row (also known as Connect 4) is the classic two-player strategy game that's been a family favorite for decades. The rules are simple: drop colored discs into a grid and be the first to connect four of your color in a row. But behind that simplicity lies surprising strategic depth.

How to Play

★ The Board

A 7-column, 6-row grid stands vertically. Discs dropped into a column fall to the lowest available slot.

★ Taking Turns

Players alternate dropping one disc per turn. Red goes first in most versions.

★ Winning

Connect four of your discs in a row—horizontally, vertically, or diagonally—before your opponent does.

★ Draw

If the board fills up with no winner, the game is a tie.

Winning Strategies

★ Control the Center

The center column is the most valuable position. A disc there can contribute to winning lines in multiple directions. Experienced players fight for center control early.

★ Create Double Threats

The key to winning is setting up a position where you have TWO potential four-in-a-rows at once. Your opponent can only block one, leaving you to complete the other.

★ Think Vertically

Beginners focus on horizontal lines. Intermediates notice diagonals. Experts think about stacking—placing discs that will eventually lead to forced wins several moves later.

★ Block and Attack

Always check if your opponent is one move away from winning before making offensive plays. Missing an obvious block is the most common beginner mistake.

The Mathematics of Connect 4

Interestingly, Connect 4 has been "solved" by computers. With perfect play from both sides, the first player (Red) can always force a win by starting in the center column. However, achieving "perfect play" requires memorizing thousands of positions—so for human players, every game is still a fresh challenge.

Game Modes

★ vs AI

Practice against the computer. Adjust difficulty to match your skill level.

★ vs Friend (2 Player)

The original experience. Take turns on the same device and see who's the true Connect 4 champion.

Why Connect 4 Endures

It's the perfect balance of accessibility and depth. A 5-year-old can understand the rules, but grandmasters spend years mastering it. Games are quick (usually under 5 minutes), making it ideal for rematches and "best of" series.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Four in a Row the same as Connect 4?▼

Yes! Four in a Row and Connect 4 are the same game. Connect 4 is the trademarked name by Hasbro, but the gameplay is identical.

How do I win at Four in a Row?▼

Connect four of your discs in a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal line before your opponent does. The key is setting up multiple threats at once so your opponent can't block everything.

Who goes first in Connect 4?▼

Traditionally, Red (or the first player) goes first. Studies show the first player has a slight advantage with perfect play, which is why controlling the center early is so important.

Can Connect 4 end in a tie?▼

Yes, if all 42 slots are filled without either player connecting four, the game is a draw. This is relatively rare in casual play.

Why Play Four in a Row on UGZ?

✓No Download Required – Play instantly in your browser without installing anything.
✓100% Free – No hidden fees, no subscriptions, no in-app purchases.
✓Works on Chromebook – Optimized for Chrome OS and all modern browsers.
✓No Flash Needed – Pure HTML5, works on any device without plugins.