Mathematical Solution
The game was solved mathematically by James D. Allen (October 1, 1988), and independently by Victor Allis (October 16, 1988). With perfect play, the first player can force a win by starting in the middle column. By starting in the two adjacent columns, the first player allows the second player to reach a draw; by starting with the four outer columns, the first player allows the second player to force a win.
Read more about this topic: Connect Four
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