Four in a RowSupport
How can we help?
How to play, answers to common questions, and a way to reach us if you’re still stuck.
How do I drop a disc?
Tap the column you want, or drag across the rack to aim: a preview disc follows your finger, and the disc drops when you let go. It falls to the lowest empty space in that column.
Why won’t a column take my disc?
That column is full. Each column holds six discs; pick another one.
Who goes first?
The first move alternates every game, so neither side always has the head start.
How does undo work against the machine?
In Vs Machine, undo takes back your disc and the machine’s reply, so it’s your turn again. In Pass & Play, undo takes back the last disc.
Where’s my game?
It’s still there. Four in a Row saves your game and the match score automatically, so if the app is closed mid-game it picks up right where you left off the next time you open it.
How does the score work?
A running score of wins and draws is kept for the match, so you can see who’s ahead across several games.
How do the levels differ?
Vs Machine has three levels: Easy, Normal and Hard. You play Ember against the machine’s Volt. Start with Easy if you’re new to the game, and change the level in Settings.
Does it need the internet?
No. Four in a Row works fully offline, including against the machine. It never uses the network.
How do I turn off sound or haptics?
Open Settings in the app and switch Sound or Haptics off. Each has its own switch.
Does it work with VoiceOver?
Yes. VoiceOver announces each column and every disc dropped, and the app supports Dynamic Type. Ember and Volt discs also differ by shape (a flame and a bolt), not just by colour.
Does the app collect my data?
No. There are no ads, accounts or tracking, and nothing leaves your device. See the privacy policy.
How to play
The rules
Setup
Four in a Row is played on an upright rack of 7 columns and 6 rows. There are two sides: Ember (orange discs with a flame) and Volt (blue discs with a bolt). The first move alternates every game.
Modes
- Vs Machine: you play Ember against the computer at Easy, Normal or Hard.
- Pass & Play: two people take turns on one iPhone or iPad.
Taking a turn
- Players take turns dropping one disc into any column that isn’t full.
- The disc falls to the lowest empty space in that column.
- Tap a column to drop, or drag to aim with the preview disc and let go.
Winning and draws
- Line up four of your discs horizontally, vertically or diagonally to win. The winning four light up with a gold line.
- If the rack fills up with no four in a row, the game is a draw.
- A running score of wins and draws is kept for the match.
Handy extras
- Undo: take back a disc. Against the machine it takes back your disc and its reply.
- Auto-save: your game and score are saved as you play and resume after the app is closed.
- Settings: Sound and Haptics switches, the machine level, and How to Play.