How to Play Quarto
2 players · 16 unique pieces · 4 × 4 board
Goal
Complete a row, column or diagonal of four pieces with at least one shared trait. All pieces belong to both players.
Know your pieces
Each of the 16 pieces has a unique combination of four traits. Look at the colour, shape, height and top.
Give, then place
The starting player gives a piece to their opponent. That opponent places it on any empty square, then gives a remaining piece back. Keep taking turns this way: you choose what your opponent plays, never your own piece.
Call it Quarto!
Place the fourth piece in a matching line to win. Wins are detected automatically — no button or spoken announcement is needed. A 2 × 2 square does not count.
Draws & rematches
A full board without a winning line is a draw. A win earns 1 point and a draw earns ½ point each. Ready up to play again; players alternate who gives the first piece.
Think before you give
Before choosing a piece, check every line of three. Could your opponent use it to complete a matching line? If so, look for a safer gift.