Gomoku: Mastering the Ancient Game – Rules, Winning Strategies, and How to Play

Introduction

Gomoku is a fascinating board game that has been played for centuries. Originating from East Asia, it is also known as Five in a Row. The game is simple to learn but offers a depth of strategy that can take a lifetime to master. The game is played on a grid, typically a 15×15 or 19×19 Go board, using black and white stones. The objective of the game is to be the first player to get an unbroken row of five stones, either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.

I once had a thrilling game of Gomoku with friends during a rainy cabin getaway. We were all focused and competitive, trying to outsmart each other. The tension grew as the board filled up. I set up a potential winning move, but my friend blocked it, showing me the depth of strategy involved. Eventually, one friend secured a winning line. We cheered and laughed, creating a memorable moment in that cozy cabin. It taught me the value of strategy and camaraderie in board games.

Gomoku is believed to have been played for thousands of years, with roots dating back to the Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1046–256 BCE). The game’s name “Gomoku” is Japanese, while “Five in a Row” reflects the objective of the game: to be the first player to align five of their pieces in a row, either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.

The game gained popularity in China and gradually spread to other East Asian countries, including Japan and Korea, where it is still played today. In Japan, Gomoku became particularly popular during the Edo period (1603–1868) and was known as “Gobang” or “Gomokunarabe.”

Gomoku has also gained international recognition, and there are various rule sets and adaptations of the game around the world. It has been studied academically and used as a benchmark for artificial intelligence and machine learning research due to its strategic complexity.

For similar abstract N-in-a-row games, I do recommend checking out alternatives like Quarto and Gobblet, which I’ve also written guides on.

Rules for playing Gomoku

The official rules of Gomoku are straightforward:

1. The game begins with an empty board.
2. Players take turns placing a stone of their color on an intersection of the grid.
3. The player who first forms an unbroken row of five stones wins the game.
4. If the board is filled and no player has formed a row of five, the game is a draw.

There are also variations of the game with different rules, known as ‘house rules’. For example, some players might agree to play with a rule that the row of five must be exactly five stones, no more, no less.

How do you play Gomoku

Setup

The game begins with an empty board. The player with the black stones usually goes first.

Gameplay

Players take turns placing a stone on any empty intersection on the board. The goal is to form an unbroken row of five stones while preventing the opponent from doing the same.

End of the Game

The game ends when a player forms an unbroken row of five stones, or when the board is filled and no player has achieved this. In the latter case, the game is a draw.

How to Win at Gomoku

Winning at Gomoku requires a balance of offensive and defensive strategies. Here are some tips to help you improve your game:

1. Control the Center: The player who controls the center of the board has more opportunities to form a row of five. Try to occupy the center early in the game.
2. Block Your Opponent: If you see your opponent getting close to forming a row of five, block them immediately. It’s better to prevent a threat than to respond to it.
3. Create Multiple Threats: Try to set up positions where you can win in more than one way. This forces your opponent to defend against multiple threats at once.
4. Plan Ahead: Gomoku is a game of strategy. Always think a few moves ahead and consider the possible responses of your opponent.

Best Strategies for playing Gomoku game

Mastering Gomoku requires understanding and applying advanced strategies. Here are some strategies that can help you win:

1. Double Three: This is a situation where you have two separate lines of three stones. This is a powerful position because it creates two threats that your opponent must block.
2. Four-Three: This is a position where you have a line of four stones and a separate line of three stones. This is a winning position because your opponent cannot block both threats at once.
3. Double Four: This is a position where you have two separate lines of four stones. This is a guaranteed win because your opponent cannot block both threats.

Scenarios for Gomoku

Understanding common scenarios in Gomoku can help you make better decisions during the game. Here are some scenarios you might encounter:

1. Early Game: In the early game, focus on occupying the center and creating multiple lines of two or three stones. This will give you more opportunities to form a row of five later in the game.
2. Mid Game: In the mid game, focus on blocking your opponent’s threats and creating your own. Look for opportunities to create Double Three, Four-Three, or Double Four positions.
3. Late Game: In the late game, focus on preventing your opponent from forming a row of five while trying to form your own. Be careful not to leave any unblocked threats.

Frequently Asked Questions about playing Gomoku game

Can I play Gomoku online? Yes, there are many websites and apps where you can play Gomoku against players from around the world.

Is Gomoku a game of luck or skill? Gomoku is a game of skill. While the initial setup can be random, the outcome of the game is determined by the players’ decisions.

Can I play Gomoku with more than two players? Gomoku is traditionally a two-player game, but you can play with more players by taking turns and using different colored stones.

What is the best opening move in Gomoku? The best opening move in Gomoku is to place your stone in the center of the board. This gives you the most opportunities to form a row of five.

What is the best defense in Gomoku? The best defense in Gomoku is to block your opponent’s threats as soon as they appear. Don’t wait until they have a row of four before you start defending.

External Links

GomokuWorld is a pretty good resource online, dedicated to the game

Gomoku! Ancient board game strategy, rules & instructions [YouTube]