Game Overview

Connect 4 is a two-player strategy game played on a vertical grid with 7 columns and 6 rows. Each player takes turns dropping their colored discs into one of the columns. The objective is to be the first to connect four of one’s own discs vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.

Players

• Minimum Players: 2
• Maximum Players: 2
• Minimum Age: 6

Objective

The goal of Connect 4 is to be the first player to form a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal line of four of their own discs.

Game Setup

1. Equipment:
   • 1 Connect 4 grid with 7 columns and 6 rows
   • 21 red discs
   • 21 yellow discs
2. Initial Setup:
   • Place the Connect 4 grid between the two players.
   • Each player chooses a color (red or yellow) and takes the corresponding set of discs.

How to Play

1. Starting the Game:
   • Decide who goes first (this can be done by flipping a coin, playing rock-paper-scissors, or any other method).
   • The first player takes one of their discs and drops it into any of the seven columns.
2. Taking Turns:
   • Players alternate turns, each dropping one disc at a time into the columns.
   • A disc can only be placed in a column if there is space available in that column.
   • The disc will occupy the lowest available slot within the chosen column.
3. Winning the Game:
   • A player wins by connecting four of their discs in a row vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.
   • If the grid is filled completely without any player connecting four discs, the game is considered a draw.

Additional Rules

• Illegal Moves: A player cannot make a move that would place a disc outside the grid or in a full column.
• Strategy Tips:
  • Try to plan ahead and anticipate your opponent’s moves.
  • Blocking your opponent’s attempts to connect four is as important as creating your own opportunities.
  • Aim to create multiple opportunities for connecting four discs simultaneously, forcing your opponent into a defensive position.

Enjoy your game of Connect 4 and may the best strategist win!