THE PLAYBOOK · SZHLJS
How to play Gomoku
Bring your attention to one round of Gomoku. Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Look at what changes after your first action. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Use the example below to understand a decision.
A careful first round
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Take a moment to understand the current position.
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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Check any mode label before starting.
A useful example
Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Check the stated objective.
Watch out for this
This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
Common questions
For my first round, what is the goal of Gomoku?
Here is the relevant explanation: Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Gomoku?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
Before I begin, 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.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Gomoku?
Here is the relevant explanation: This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules.
For my first round, 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.
On this playing page, which play mode does Gomoku use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.