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Gomok Narabe

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MSX 1 Board Game Japan 2 Players 5 (0) 1

Gomok Narabe

Gomok Narabe - Board Game Classic

Compiled by the Retro Games Online Editorial Team · Updated June 27, 2026

Gomok Narabe is a digital adaptation of the classic abstract strategy game Gomoku, also known as Five in a Row. It was released for the MSX 1 home computer system, likely during the early 1980s when the platform was popular in Japan. The specific developer and publisher are not widely documented, but it stands as a straightforward board game conversion typical of the era's software libraries.

In Gomok Narabe, two players take turns placing their stones on a grid, traditionally 15x15 intersections. The objective is to be the first to achieve five consecutive stones horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. There are no special power-ups or twists; it follows the standard Gomoku rules. Players use the keyboard to navigate the cursor to an empty intersection and confirm their move. The game does not include an AI opponent, so it relies on human-versus-human play.

Today, Gomok Narabe offers a no-frills way to enjoy a timeless strategy game on an MSX 1 emulator. It is a niche title that appeals to fans of abstract board games and retro computing history. While it lacks the complexity of later digital board game adaptations, its simplicity makes it a quick and engaging two-player experience. If you are looking for a pure, unadulterated version of Five in a Row on an early home computer, this is a solid choice.

How to Play Gomok Narabe Online

To begin, load the game in your MSX 1 emulator. The title screen will likely present a menu in Japanese. Use the Arrow Keys to highlight the option to start a new game and press X to confirm. The board will appear, centered on the screen. Player 1 (usually black) moves first. Use the Arrow Keys to move a blinking cursor to an empty intersection and press X to place your stone. Then hand the controls to player 2, who does the same. The game continues until someone gets five in a row or the board fills up. There is no built-in timer or undo function, so play carefully. Since the interface is in Japanese, you may need to experiment with the menu options - the first option is typically the new game command. Enjoy the classic feel of a simple two-player strategy match.

Gomok Narabe Keyboard Controls

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: Trigger 1
S: Trigger 2
Enter: Start

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Gomok Narabe stand out among MSX 1 titles of its era?

It is one of the few board game implementations on the MSX 1, offering a pure abstract strategy experience without unnecessary frills. Its faithfulness to the original Gomoku rules makes it a solid pick for fans of the genre.

Is Gomok Narabe exclusive to MSX 1 or did it appear on other systems?

All available evidence points to it being exclusive to the MSX 1 platform. No ports to other home computers or consoles from the same period have been documented.

Who developed Gomok Narabe?

The developer of Gomok Narabe is not widely recorded. It likely was a small software house or an individual programmer, but specific credit remains unknown in common retro gaming archives.