How to Play Gomoku

THE PLAYBOOK · HONGRENYOU

Start Gomoku by looking at the playing area and its controls. 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. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Keep the aim in sight

Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules. 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. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Check the rules when you are unsure.

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. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.

A useful example

Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. 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. 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

For my first round, what is the goal of Gomoku?

Keep this in mind: 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?

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

As a new player, what example helps explain Gomoku?

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

Before I begin, 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?

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.

For a quick reminder, which play mode does Gomoku use?

Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.