Connect 4X4

Conect 4 X 4 - Played on a two-sided grid. Watch both sides to win and block.

Connect 4 X 4, is my second favorite Connect 4 game (my favorite is Connect 4 Launchers). Connect 4 X 4 plays like regular Connect 4 in that you need four checkers in a row vertically, horizontally, or diagonally to win. It is different in that you can play on both sides of the grid and a Connect 4 can occur on either side or weave through both sides. A lot to watch and a fun challenge for those who are already familiar with the original version. This game is also different in that up to four people can play, instead of only two.

You will have to turn the grid around as you play to keep track of what is on both sides because for each hole, there is the possibility of having two checkers, one in front and one in back. At the top, where you drop in the checkers, there are two separated tracks in each hole so that you can control which side your checker will go to. The stand on the bottom of the grid is attached and flips up for storage and down, as you see in the image above, for play. The grid is not tipsy at all and has a more stable way to stand than the original game because you are going to be turning it quite a bit as you play.

There are two types of checkers - a single checker that is hollow in the middle and a two-sided checker, called a blocker, that is solid color in the middle and will play on both sides of the grid at once. Use the blockers strategically because they are a great asset. Each player will get 17 single checkers and two blockers.

Object:
Be the first person to get four of your color checker in a row, horizontally, vertically or diagonally.

Set up:
Give each player all of one color checker. Stand the grid between the players. Push the black piece at the bottom of the grid to one side so that the checkers will not fall all the way through.

Play:
Players take turns. Drop one checker in through the hole at the top of the column where you want it to go. Your goal is to plan and play four in a row while still blocking others from getting four in a row. Watch as others play to keep track of places you will need to block. You will have to be flexible, as you may need to change your course several times as others block you. Watch for openings where you can play that will give you more options for a win. Play until someone gets 4 in a row and wins the game.

When you are done, push the black piece at the bottom of the grid to the other side so the pieces will all fall out.

Try this:

• Ask the individual to hold two or three checkers in-hand at once. Each turn, have him move one checker to the fingertips to play.
• Skip the game. Use only one side of the grid. Make a paper pattern of the grid filled with colored checkers. Place the pattern next to, or in front of the grid and ask the person to make the colored pattern on the grid instead of playing a game.
• Fill the grid with the checkers, in several lines of four going in different directions. Ask the individual to find and point out all the Connect 4's that he can see on the grid. Start easier by asking for one color at a time.
• Practice reaching and dropping the checkers in the slot at the top. Make a symmetrical pattern or just free play.
• Work on fine motor precision, manual dexterity, pincer grasp, visual discrimination, visual closure, figure ground, spatial relations, visual scanning, eye hand coordination, strategy, flexible thinking, crossing midline, socialization skills, process skills, executive functioning skills, play exploration and participation

In the box: 68 checkers, 8 blockers, double-sided grid
Ages 8+, 2 players

If you are interested in purchasing this game or just want more information, click on the image below.