How to Play Gomoku

THE PLAYBOOK · LINCANGCHU

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. Use the example below to understand a decision. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.

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. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.

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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. 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. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Take a moment to compare.

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

Common questions

Before I begin, what is the goal of Gomoku?

For clarity: 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?

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.

As a new player, what should I watch out for in Gomoku?

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?

For clarity: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.

Which play mode does Gomoku use?

Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.