Gomoku Rules

We invite you to learn the rules of Gomoku, also known as "Five in a Row". We hope this guide will help you understand the game better and eventually become a champion. Let's see how to play this great game!

What You Need for the Game

Game Board. A grid of 15x15 cells.

Stones. Each player has a set of red (or black) and white stones (you can also use crosses and noughts).

Rules

Starting the Game. The player with red (or black) stones goes first in the center of the board. Then, players take turns.

Placing Stones. On each turn, a player places one of their stones on an empty intersection (not inside a square) on the board.

Winning the Game. The first player to line up five of their stones horizontally, vertically, or diagonally wins the game.

Draw. If all cells on the board are filled and neither player has lined up five stones, the game is considered a draw.

Strategies

Offense and Defense. Balance between creating your own line of five stones and blocking your opponent's attempts to do the same.

Control the Center. Dominating the center of the board gives you more chances to create lines in different directions.

Pattern Recognition. Pay attention to patterns and common threats, like double threes (placing stones to create two open lines of three stones).

From Theory to Practice

We hope these rules of Gomoku have helped you understand how to play. Gomoku is a game of deep strategy and planning, requiring both knowledge and practice. So, focus on practicing the game. We wish you successful and exciting matches!