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Gomoku: how a round works

Build familiarity through play

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.

The goal to keep in mind

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. Check the rules when you are unsure.

Making your moves

  1. Player 1 places the first stone on an empty intersection.
  2. Player 2 places a stone and turns alternate.
  3. Look for open lines and block your opponent’s threats.
  4. A winning line immediately ends the round.

Your inputs

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Check any mode label before starting.

A useful example

Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Verify the rule before continuing.

A mistake to avoid

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. 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.

More answers before you play

On this playing page, 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.

While learning, how do I control Gomoku?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

On this playing page, what example helps explain Gomoku?

Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves.

As a new player, 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 a quick reminder, 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.

When I return, 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.

For my first round, where should I start with Gomoku?

Keep this in mind: Player 1 places the first stone on an empty intersection.

When I return, do I need an account or a payment for Gomoku?

For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

Before I begin, how can I find Gomoku again?

The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

As a new player, how do I report an issue with Gomoku?

For clarity: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.