How to Play Gomoku

THE PLAYBOOK · GYHUAXIANG

Open Gomoku, check the instructions and begin a round. Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Look at what changes after your first action. Check the rule that explains your first action. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

A careful first round

Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Make the next step deliberately.

Your goal

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.

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. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.

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. Keep the game’s format in mind.

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. 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.

Common questions

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.

As a new player, how do I control Gomoku?

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

For this browser game, what example helps explain Gomoku?

For clarity: 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?

For clarity: This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules.

What format does Gomoku offer?

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

On this playing page, 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.