Gomoku Online
In Gomoku online you place stones alternately with the computer on a board; whoever first gets five (or more) in a horizontal, vertical or diagonal row wins. You play Black and start, or let the computer begin.
Source: Wikipedia – Gomoku. Updated: .
How it is calculated
Gomoku (Japanese for "five stones", also called five in a row) is a strategy game for two: whoever first gets five of their own stones in a line wins. It is played on a grid, here 9 × 9, 13 × 13 or 15 × 15 squares. The computer plays at three levels.
How to play
- Black starts; then both place one stone at a time on an empty square.
- You win by connecting five or more stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally without a gap.
- Stones are never moved or captured.
Strategy tips
- Centre first: stones in the middle of the board have the most lines.
- Watch open threes: three stones with free ends become an "open four" next move that cannot be stopped, so block at once.
- Double threat: a move that creates two threes, or a four and a three, usually wins.
- Combine attack and defence: good moves block your opponent and extend your own line.
Computer levels
"Easy" picks at random among good squares and sometimes misses a threat. "Medium" scores every square for attack and defence. "Hard" also looks ahead at the opponent's best reply. "Suggest a move" uses the strong search for you.
Frequently asked questions
How does Gomoku work?
Two players alternately place stones on a grid. Whoever first has five or more of their own stones in a row, horizontally, vertically or diagonally, wins.
Who gets to start in Gomoku?
Traditionally Black starts, which is a small advantage. Here you choose whether you or the computer places the first stone.
What is an open three or open four?
An open three is three stones in a row with free squares at both ends. One more stone turns it into an open four, which the opponent can no longer block on both sides.
Is it different from "five in a row" or Renju?
The basic idea is the same. This version plays freestyle: five or more win, and there are no restrictions on Black as in Renju.
Is my game saved?
No. The game runs entirely in your browser; nothing is stored or sent.
Sources and legal basis
As of: · Editorial policy
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