Game guide · XDSTMALL
Gomoku: rules and examples
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. Use the example below to understand a decision. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Give this approach a try
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Keep the objective visible.
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. Take a moment to understand the current position.
How a round unfolds
- 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.
Using the playing area
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
An example to follow
Four consecutive stones with an empty point at both ends creates two possible finishing moves. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Keep the controls nearby.
Watch out for this
This is freestyle Gomoku, not Renju: there are no special forbidden opening or double-three rules. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.
A few questions answered
For a quick reminder, 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.
As a new player, how do I control Gomoku?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, what example helps explain Gomoku?
For clarity: 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.
On this playing page, which play mode does Gomoku use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
When I return, where should I start with Gomoku?
Keep this in mind: Player 1 places the first stone on an empty intersection.
When I return, do I need an account or a payment for Gomoku?
For clarity: 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?
The key detail is this: 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.