How to Play Gomoku

THE PLAYBOOK · TJHAIZHONG

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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

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. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Start with a deliberate move.

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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.

A useful example

Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Read the matching step again.

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. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.

Common questions

While reading the Guide, 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 reading the Guide, how do I control Gomoku?

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

For my first round, what example helps explain Gomoku?

The key detail is this: Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves.

While learning, what should I watch out for in Gomoku?

Keep this in mind: 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?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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?

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.