Connect 4
Connect 4 is the instantly recognisable vertical board game of quick thinking and sneaky strategy! Drop your red or yellow discs into the grid and race to be the first to line up four in a row-horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Simple rules, addictive play!
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Read the rules for Connect 4
What is Connect 4?
Connect 4 is a classic two-player game where players drop coloured discs into a seven-column, six-row vertical grid. The aim? Be the first to connect four of your discs in a row-across, down, or diagonally. It's a brilliant mix of tactics and fast thinking, perfect for all ages.
Fun Fact: Connect 4 is a solved game-if both players play perfectly, the first player can always win!
History of Connect 4
- Released in 1974 by Milton Bradley (now Hasbro), Connect 4 quickly became a staple of family game nights.
- Inspired by earlier vertical games, it was the first to become a mass-market hit.
- Invented by Howard Wexler and Ned Strongin, the game has sold millions of copies worldwide.
- Connect 4 has inspired digital versions, travel editions, and even giant outdoor sets.
How to Play Connect 4 - Rules
- Each player chooses a colour-red or yellow-and takes turns dropping one disc into a column.
- The disc falls to the lowest available space in that column.
- The goal: be the first to connect four of your discs in a continuous line-horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
- If the board fills with no winner, the game is a draw.
Popular Editions of Connect 4
- Classic Connect 4 (standard blue grid, red/yellow discs)
- Travel and compact sets
- Giant outdoor and party editions
- Electronic and app versions
- Themed editions (Disney, Marvel, Super Mario, and more)
Retro Tip: Giant Connect 4 sets are a hit at garden parties and weddings!
Strategy & Tips
- Try to control the centre column-most winning lines pass through the middle.
- Think ahead: block your opponent's threats while planning your own.
- Set up multiple threats at once ('forks') so your opponent can't block both.
- Force your opponent to 'help' you: sometimes dropping a disc gives you the win next turn!
- Don't just go for three in a row-set up traps for a sneaky win!
Did you know? Connect 4 is popular in AI research as a classic example of a 'solved' game.
Why We Love Connect 4
Connect 4 is fast, fun, and endlessly replayable. The rules are simple, but the strategy is deep-making it a go-to for family battles, pub duels, and teaching kids logic and planning. Whether you're young or old, dropping that fourth disc is always a thrill!