Gomoku
Get five of your stones in a row to win.
How to play
- Take turns placing stones on the 15×15 board — Black moves first.
- Make an unbroken line of five of your stones to win.
- A line counts in any direction: across, down, or diagonally.
- Play the computer at Easy, Medium or Hard, or pass and play with a friend.
Strategy & tips
- Build an "open three" (three in a row with both ends free) — it forces your opponent to react.
- An "open four" is an instant win threat; make one and always block your opponent’s.
- Watch both ends of every line — a four blocked on one side can still be extended on the other.
- Create two threats at once (a fork); your opponent can only block one.
- Do not just attack — one missed block from the opponent’s four loses the game.
FAQ
How do you win at Gomoku?
Be the first to line up five of your stones in a row — horizontally, vertically or diagonally — on the 15×15 board.
Can I play against the computer?
Yes. Choose your colour and Easy, Medium or Hard. The computer takes wins, blocks your threats and plays a real game. Two-player pass-and-play is also available.
Who goes first?
Black moves first, which is a small advantage — switch colours between games to keep it fair.
Is it free and account-free?
Yes. Gomoku plays free in your browser with no download and no sign-up. Your win record saves locally.
Does it work on mobile?
Yes. Tap an empty spot to place a stone. The board scales to fit phones and tablets as well as desktop.