THE PLAYBOOK · HHDMY6
Gomoku: rules and examples
Try Gomoku at your own pace and keep its objective in view. 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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Practice with a purpose
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Refer to the controls when needed.
What you are aiming for
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. Check the rules when you are unsure.
How a round unfolds
- 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.
The controls to know
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Look at the feedback after the action.
One way to understand the rules
Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Consider the next action carefully.
Watch out for this
This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. Compare the situation with the worked example. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Further help with the game
For my first round, what is the goal of Gomoku?
Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw.
For my first round, how do I control Gomoku?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Gomoku?
Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves.
For this browser game, 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.
On this playing page, what format does Gomoku offer?
The key detail is this: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Before I begin, which play mode does Gomoku use?
The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.