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Gomoku
Gomoku, also called Five in a Row, is a two-player game from Japan played on a Go board with Go stones. The objective is simple: be the first to place five of your stones in an unbroken line. Its clean rules make it instantly learnable, but the first-move advantage runs deep enough to demand real tactics.
Gomoku Rules
Players alternate placing one stone of their color on an empty intersection of the grid, traditionally 15×15. Black moves first. Once placed, stones never move and are never captured — the board only fills up.
The winner is the first player to form a continuous line of exactly five of their own stones horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. In the most common free-style rules an overline of six or more also counts as a win, while tournament rules require exactly five.
Because Black's first-move advantage is so strong, competitive Gomoku (Renju) adds restrictions on Black such as forbidding certain double-threes, double-fours, and overlines. Casual play usually ignores these, and a full board with no five in a row is a draw.
Gomoku Strategy & Tips
Create double threats
The winning idea is making two open lines of four at once — your opponent can only block one. Build positions that branch into multiple four-in-a-row threats.
Respect the open four
A line of four with empty ends is unstoppable. Never let your opponent reach one, and chase your own; even a closed four forces a defensive reply you can build on.
Attack while you defend
The best blocking move also extends your own line. Look for stones that stop the opponent's row and simultaneously create a new threat of your own.
Use the center early
Opening near the middle gives your lines room to grow in every direction. Edges and corners cut off potential winning lines and limit your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Gomoku and tic-tac-toe?
Both are line-up games, but Gomoku needs five in a row on a large 15×15 board, while tic-tac-toe needs three on a 3×3 grid. The extra space makes Gomoku vastly deeper and rarely a forced draw.
Does the first player always win in Gomoku?
Under free-style rules with no restrictions, the first player (Black) has a proven winning strategy. That is why competitive Renju adds rules limiting Black's strongest opening threats.
Do you need exactly five in a row to win?
In standard tournament rules, yes — exactly five. In casual free-style play an overline of six or more usually also counts as a win.
What board do you play Gomoku on?
Traditionally a 15×15 grid, though it is often played on a 19×19 Go board with Go stones. Stones are placed on the line intersections, not inside the squares.