Play Gomoku Online
Five in a row — a classic strategy board game. Place your stones, make a line of five, and win!
What is Gomoku?
Gomoku, also known as Five in a Row, Gobang, or Omok, is a classic strategy board game played on a grid. Two players take turns placing stones — one black, one white — and the first to form an unbroken line of exactly five stones wins.
Originating in ancient China over 4,000 years ago, gomoku is simple to learn but offers deep strategic complexity. It is played professionally in Japan (as Renju), Korea (as Omok), and around the world.
How to Play Gomoku in 3 Steps
Place Your Stone
Players take turns placing one stone at a time on any empty intersection. Black always goes first.
Build Your Line
Form a line of stones horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Create threats and block your opponent's lines.
Get Five in a Row
The first player to form an unbroken line of exactly five stones wins. If the board fills up with no winner, it's a draw.
Gomoku by Other Names
Gomoku is known by different names around the world. They all refer to the same classic game of five in a row.
Explore Gomoku
🎮 Play Online
Play gomoku against AI or a friend — right in your browser.
📖 How to Play
Complete beginner's guide with step-by-step instructions.
📋 Rules
Official gomoku rules including standard, renju, and free-style.
🧠 Strategy Guide
Learn winning strategies from beginner to advanced level.
🔲 Gomoku Board
Board sizes, printable PDFs, and board setup guide.
🔓 Play Unblocked
Play gomoku on any device — no installation or signup needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gomoku?
Gomoku is a strategy board game where two players take turns placing stones on a grid. The goal is to be the first to form an unbroken line of five stones in any direction — horizontal, vertical, or diagonal. It's also called Five in a Row, Gobang, or Omok.
Is gomoku the same as Connect Four?
No. While both are "line-forming" games, gomoku is played on a flat 15×15 grid where stones can be placed anywhere, while Connect Four uses a vertical 7×6 grid where pieces fall due to gravity. Gomoku has much more strategic depth.
Can I play gomoku online for free?
Yes! You can play gomoku right on this page — no download, no signup required. Choose to play against our AI opponent or challenge a friend in local two-player mode.
What is the best first move in gomoku?
The center of the board is generally the strongest opening move in gomoku. Starting in the center gives you the most flexibility to build lines in any direction. Learn more strategies →
What board size does gomoku use?
The standard gomoku board is 15×15 intersections. However, beginners may prefer a smaller 9×9 board for faster games, and 13×13 is also commonly used. Learn about gomoku boards →