The best first move in Four in a Row is the middle column. Computers that have solved the game show it’s the only first move that guarantees a win with perfect play.
How each first move scores with perfect play
| First move | Result with perfect play |
|---|---|
| Middle column (4) | First player wins |
| Next to the middle (3 or 5) | Draw |
| Any other column (1, 2, 6 or 7) | Second player wins |
If you go second
If your opponent starts in the middle, the strongest reply is usually to play in the middle too, on top of their disc. Stay close to the centre and avoid the edge columns early on.
Edge columns are weak early
The outside columns (1 and 7) are part of only a few winning lines. Discs there early in the game do very little. Save them for blocking later.
Practise openings
Play several games against the Hard computer, always starting in the middle, and notice how it responds.
Keep reading
More in Four in a Row Strategy: How to Win at Four in a Row · Best Opening Moves in Four in a Row · Four in a Row Cheats and Tricks · Seven Common Four in a Row Mistakes · How to Beat the Computer at Four in a Row · Odd and Even Threats in Four in a Row
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