Go-Moku

Go-Moku is a multi-player game similar to Tic-Tac-Toe. It originated in China and was believed to have been played as far back as 700 AD. Early five-in-a-row type games were mentioned in Chinese writings dating back as far as 100 AD and may be early versions of the game as we know it today.

What You'll Need

  • A piece of paper setup in a grid with a minimum of 15 squares wide by 15 squares high. We recommend using our printable game board.
  • A pencil.

Object of the Game

Be the first player to get five in a row horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.

Playing Go-Moku

Players take turns each marking one square with their symbol, typically X and O, but other symbols can be used.

Winning the Game

The first player to get five of their marks in a straight row horizontally, vertically, or diagonally is the winner.

Example

In the example below the game was won by the player using the X symbol.

Variations

The game can also be played with more than two players. Try playing with four or more players. With the addition of each new player the game becomes increasingly more difficult to win. When playing with multiple players it may be easiest to assign each player a number rather than a symbol.


Pencil and Paper Games

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