PLAYING GUIDE
Two people share the same board
Players alternate placing tokens on one device. A token falls to the lowest empty space in its column. Four connected tokens horizontally, vertically or diagonally wins. There is no computer opponent or online matchmaking on this page.
Check immediate wins before building
Before choosing a column, look for a move that finishes your line. Then look for the opponent’s immediate winning move. A promising long-term shape does not help if the opponent can complete four on the next turn.
Remember that empty squares need support
A diagonal gap high above the stack is not immediately playable. Count how many tokens must fall below it before it can be filled. Placing a supporting token may accidentally give your opponent access to their winning square.
Create two playable threats
A strong position gives you two different winning moves after your next turn. The opponent can usually block only one. Compare that with a single long-looking line that has only one useful end. For a replay challenge, pause together before a move and name both players’ immediate threats.
Updated 26 September 2026 · Our editorial method