Free online game
Play Five in a Row online with a friend or computer
Play Gomoku online against a friend or a computer opponent with three difficulty levels. The game is free and works on mobile and desktop browsers.
How to play
Players alternate placing X and O marks on a 15×15 board. The first player to form an uninterrupted line of five marks horizontally, vertically, or diagonally wins.
Tips for winning
Watch your opponent’s threats while developing your own lines. Build open patterns that can grow in two directions, because they are harder to stop with a single move.
Gomoku strategy: build threats, not just lines
A 15×15 board creates many possibilities quickly. The strongest move is often not the one that makes the longest line, but the one that preserves several future continuations while restricting the opponent.
Start in the active area of the board
Central space leaves room to extend in more directions. Do not scatter early marks too far apart; connected stones support each other. Avoid an overly dense shape that one defensive move can block in several directions.
Distinguish real threats
An open four is immediate danger because either end can complete the line. An open three does not win at once, but it can develop into a forcing sequence. Before every move, check the opponent’s one-move wins first, then look for your own forcing moves.
Defend while building your position
When several cells can block a line, prefer one that also connects to your marks. A forced defensive move then becomes the foundation of a later attack. A disconnected block often gives away the initiative and leaves you reacting again next turn.
Break through with a double threat
A powerful plan prepares a move after which two different cells can win. The opponent can block only one in a single turn. Build this fork several moves ahead by watching intersections between horizontal, vertical, and diagonal lines.
Common Gomoku mistakes
Games are often lost by watching only your own line, overvaluing a closed four, or missing the opponent’s immediate win. Use this order: opponent’s one-move win, your one-move win, forcing threat, and only then general development.
Frequently asked questions
Is the game free?
Yes. You can play free directly in your browser.
Can I play with a friend?
Yes. Start a game, then send the generated invite link or code to the other player.
Do I need to register?
No. You can play immediately as a guest; registration is only needed to keep your match history.
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