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A practical guide to Gomoku

One thing to notice as you play

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. Refer to the controls when needed.

The objective of a round

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

  1. Player 1 places the first stone on an empty intersection.
  2. Player 2 places a stone and turns alternate.
  3. Look for open lines and block your opponent’s threats.
  4. A winning line immediately ends the round.

Controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.

A closer look at one example

Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Keep the game’s format in mind.

Keep this in mind

This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Common questions

For a quick reminder, 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.

When I return, how do I control Gomoku?

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

When I return, what example helps explain Gomoku?

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

For my first round, 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.

When I return, 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 my first round, which play mode does Gomoku use?

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

Before I begin, where should I start with Gomoku?

Player 1 places the first stone on an empty intersection.

Do I need an account or a payment for Gomoku?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For a quick reminder, how can I find Gomoku again?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

For my first round, how do I report an issue with Gomoku?

For clarity: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.