Gomoku
Get five in a row before the computer does.
About Gomoku
Gomoku, also called five in a row, is a classic strategy game from East Asia: place stones on a grid and be the first to line up five. The rules take seconds, the tactics last a lifetime. Beat the computer to reach the leaderboard.
How to play
You play black and move first. Take turns placing stones on the intersections of the 15×15 board. The first to line up five (or more) stones horizontally, vertically or diagonally wins. Block the computer's lines before they reach five. Faster wins score higher.
Tips and strategies
- An open four (with both ends free) can't be stopped — build towards one.
- Block the computer's open threes early, before they become open fours.
- Moves that build two lines at once are the strongest: the computer can block only one.
Gomoku strategy guide
Make open threes. Three in a row with both ends free must be answered at once — left alone, it becomes an unstoppable open four.
Combine threats. A move that creates two threats at once — two open threes, or a four and an open three — usually wins on the spot.
Block early. When the computer gets an open three, block one end immediately; waiting until it has an open four is too late.
Frequently asked questions
How do I play Gomoku?
Take turns placing stones on a 15×15 board. You play black and go first; the first to get five or more in a row — horizontally, vertically or diagonally — wins.
How does the computer play?
It rates every empty point near the stones by the lines it would build or block. Easy plays with some randomness, Medium takes the best-looking move, and Hard also checks your best reply.
How are wins ranked?
Only wins count, and quicker wins rank higher: your score is 113 minus the number of stones you placed.
Is Gomoku free to play?
Yes. Every game on Puzzimo is completely free and runs in your browser on desktop, tablet and phone — no download or installation.
Do I need an account?
No. You can play instantly as a guest and still appear on the leaderboards. Sign in with Google, Discord or LINE to keep your scores on every device.
How does the daily Gomoku challenge work?
Every day at 00:00 UTC everyone gets the same new puzzle. Only your first finish of the day counts on the leaderboard.
How are leaderboard results verified?
Our servers replay every move of your game and measure the time themselves, so leaderboard results can't be faked.