Mòpyon strategy guides
Six short guides that take you from knowing the rules to winning on purpose. Read them in order if you are new, or jump to the topic you need. Each one has board diagrams and ends with something to practise.
1The open three: the threat that wins most gamesWhat an open three is in five in a row, why it must be answered, the broken three, and how to spot both before your opponent does.Read the guide →2Double threats (forks): how games are really wonHow to create a double threat in five in a row: the four-three, the three-three, and how to prepare a fork several moves ahead.Read the guide →3How to defend in five in a rowA simple defensive routine for five in a row: the order of priorities, which end of a three to block, key points, and counter-attacks.Read the guide →4Openings: the first moves of a gameHow to start a game of five in a row: why the centre matters, direct and diagonal answers, and simple plans for the first ten moves as X and as O.Read the guide →5Seven beginner mistakes (and how to fix them)The most common mistakes new five-in-a-row players make, from missing diagonals to blocking the wrong end, with a simple fix for each.Read the guide →6Clocks, ratings and the coach: getting better onlineHow time controls, Elo-style ratings and post-game review work on Mòpyon.net, and how to use them to improve steadily.Read the guide →
Ready to try it? Play a free game against a friend, a stranger or the computer.