THE PLAYBOOK · 360-L
How to play 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. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Check the rule that explains your first action. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Review a difficult moment
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. 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. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
Step by step
- 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.
A useful example
Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Choose a deliberate next step.
Watch out for this
This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. Check the rule before repeating the action. Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round.
Common questions
What is the goal of Gomoku?
The key detail is this: Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw.
Before I begin, how do I control Gomoku?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, what example helps explain Gomoku?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
For clarity: 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.
While learning, which play mode does Gomoku use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.