THE PLAYBOOK · NMGDASHUJU
Play Gomoku with the rules at hand
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. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Build familiarity through play
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. 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. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
A walkthrough of the rules
- 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.
Choosing and moving on screen
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
See how the rules apply
Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Choose a deliberate next step.
An important reminder
This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. Compare the situation with the worked example. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Questions that come up during play
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Gomoku?
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?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
When I return, what example helps explain Gomoku?
Keep this in mind: Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves.
While reading the Guide, 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.
While reading the Guide, 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.
For this browser game, which play mode does Gomoku use?
The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.