How to play Connect 4

  1. Tap a column to drop your red disc into the lowest empty slot.
  2. The computer (yellow) answers — or your friend drops their disc in 2-player mode.
  3. Connect four of your discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally to win.
  4. Block the opponent: never let three of their discs stand in a row with an open end.
  5. Use Undo to take back a move and try a different line.

Tips to beat the computer

  • Control the centre column — it belongs to the most possible winning lines.
  • Watch for double threats: create two ways to win at once so the computer can only block one.
  • Build from the bottom up and count how many open ends your lines have.
  • On Hard, the computer thinks 6 moves ahead — force it into traps rather than hoping for mistakes.
💡 Did you know? Perfect play on the standard 7×6 board wins for the first player — mathematicians proved it in 1988. But a single careless drop flips the advantage instantly, which is why Connect 4 stays fun.

Frequently asked questions

Is Connect 4 online free?

Yes — this Connect 4 is 100% free to play in your browser. No download, no sign-up, no in-app purchases. You can play unlimited games against the computer or a friend on the same device.

Can I play Connect 4 vs the computer?

Yes. Choose the Computer mode and pick a difficulty: Easy for relaxed play, Medium for a fair challenge, or Hard where the AI looks up to six moves ahead with a minimax strategy. You play red, the computer plays yellow.

How do you win Connect 4?

Be the first to line up four of your discs in a row — horizontally, vertically or diagonally. If all 42 slots fill with no line of four, the game is a draw. The winning discs are highlighted on the board.

Do I need to download anything to play?

No. This Connect 4 runs entirely in your browser with HTML and JavaScript — it works on phones, tablets and desktops, and needs no installation.

Can two people play on one phone?

Yes — choose 2 Players mode and pass the device back and forth. Red goes first. The undo button takes back the last move, and the scoreboard tracks wins for both players.

Is Connect 4 a good game for kids?

Definitely. Connect 4 teaches planning, pattern-spotting and patience, the rules take a minute to learn, and there is no violence or gambling content. Start kids on Easy mode against the computer.

🔗 See also