THE PLAYBOOK · NMGAFT
How to play Gomoku
Try Gomoku at your own pace and keep its objective in view. 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. Read the objective before making your first input. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
A useful comparison
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your goal
Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Keep the controls in easy reach.
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. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
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. Keep the controls nearby.
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. 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.
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.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Gomoku?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
As a new player, 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?
The key detail is this: This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules.
Before I begin, 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.
While reading the Guide, 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.
