THE PLAYBOOK · HONGYIWEN
How to play Gomoku
Bring your attention to one round of Gomoku. Make five or more connected stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally. A full board without a line is a draw. Use the example below to understand a decision. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Review a difficult moment
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. 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. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. The example below illustrates a decision.
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. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Look at the feedback after the action.
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. Read the matching step again.
Watch out for this
This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. A different version of the game may use a different rule. 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
As a new player, 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.
While learning, how do I control Gomoku?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
On this playing page, 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
Before I begin, 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.