Gomoku, a board game that originated in China, has become popular in Japan, Korea, and other countries. Playing the game involves using black and white stones on a Go board, and achieving five stones in a row (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally) is the goal.
You must have a Go board and black and white stones. The Go board is a grid of 19 x 19 lines, and the stones are placed at the intersections of the lines. Place the stones next to the board, so that they are easily accessible.
One player starts the game by putting a black stone at one of the board’s intersections. A white stone is placed by the other player at an adjacent intersection. The game continues with the two players alternating between placing a stone of their color on an empty intersection.
Basic Strategies
Try to make two or three rows of four stones (known as a ‘live four’) that are open. By placing a fifth stone in the row on your next turn, you can either win or prevent your opponent from creating a live four.
Create a row of three stones (called a ‘dead four’) to block your opponent’s live four. Your opponent won’t be able to win on their next turn by doing this.
Try to create as many rows of three stones as possible without any gaps. This will increase your chances of winning and make it harder for your opponent to create a live four.
Do not make rows of two stones, as this will allow your opponent to create a live four and win the game.
Be mindful of your opponent’s placement of stones and observe patterns in their play. Predicting their next move can help you make better strategic decisions.
Winning the Game
The game is won when a player makes an open row of five stones (referred to as a ‘live five’). The game can also be won by creating two rows of four stones (called a “double live four”). The game will be a draw if neither player has created a live five or double live four after 19 moves.
Tips
Playing Gomoku requires patience and strategy. Take your time and pay close attention to each move you make.
Pay attention to your opponent’s placement of stones and look for patterns in their play. Predicting their next move will enable you to make better strategic decisions.
Try to create as many rows of three stones as possible without any gaps. This will give you more chances to win and make it more difficult for your opponent to create a live four.
To prevent your opponent from creating a live four and winning the game, avoid creating rows of two stones.
Create a row of three stones (called a ‘dead four’) to block your opponent’s live four. Your opponent won’t be able to win their next turn because of this.
Start playing Gomoku with these strategies in mind! Good luck!