Is Four in a Row a solved game?
Yes. On the standard 7-by-6 board, the first player can always force a win by opening in the centre column and then playing perfectly. Few humans manage it.
Four in a Row (best known as Connect Four) was solved in 1988, independently by James D. Allen and Victor Allis. Their analysis showed that the first player wins with perfect play.
What the solution says
- Open in the centre and the first player can force a win.
- Open in a column next to the centre and a perfect second player can hold a draw.
- Open further out and a perfect second player can win.
What it means for your games
The winning strategy is far too long to memorise, so real games are decided by mistakes. Still, the solution confirms the basics: the centre column is the most valuable, and going first is an advantage. The strategy guide turns those ideas into practical rules.
For practical play beyond this rule, read How to Win at Four in a Row.
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