Four square is a fast moving playground game that blends quick reflexes with simple rules. All you need is a rubber ball, a flat piece of pavement and at least four players.

This guide breaks down everything from drawing the court to serving, scoring and popular rule variations, giving new and returning players the know-how to start competing right away.

Court Size and Layout

Traditional four square uses a 16 foot by 16 foot square divided into four equal 8 foot boxes. Each box is labeled one through four or sometimes King, Queen, Jack, and Ace.

Chalk, tape or painted lines work fine for marking boundaries. Make sure the surface is flat and free of gravel so the ball bounces predictably.

Essential Equipment

A standard 8.5 inch playground ball inflated to medium firmness is ideal. A slightly softer ball reduces sting while still bouncing well.

Comfortable athletic shoes and clothing are recommended, especially if games run long.

• Ball size 8 to 10 inches
• Pressure around 2 psi

Starting Positions

Each player stands inside a numbered square. The top ranked square, usually Square Four, starts with the serve. Lower numbers are positioned counterclockwise, with Square One considered the entry point for new players.

If more than four people want to play, extra players line up outside Square One and rotate in when someone is eliminated.

Serving the Ball

The server drops the ball once in their own square, lets it bounce, then hits it underhand into another square. Most playgrounds require the serve to land cleanly in any opposing square without touching boundary lines.

A fault on the serve, such as the ball bouncing twice in the server’s square or landing out of bounds, results in the server moving to Square One while others rotate up.

Basic Rally Rules

After the serve, players hit the ball into a different square on each contact. The ball must bounce exactly once in the receiving square before that player can return it.

You are out if the ball bounces twice in your square, you hit it out of bounds, or you strike it before it lands inside your square.

Scoring and Rotation

Four square is usually played as a continuous elimination game rather than by points. The goal is to advance to Square Four and hold the spot as long as possible.

When a player is out, everyone below that square moves up a number and the first person in line enters Square One.

Popular Variations

House rules keep the game fresh. Common twists include allowing overhand hits, double taps, or cherry bombs where the ball is slammed hard to create a high bounce.

Before a match begins, agree on which variations are active to avoid midgame disputes.

• Around the World rotation
• No cherry bombs for younger players

Strategy Tips

Aim low and to the corners to force awkward returns. Mixing soft touches with occasional power shots keeps opponents guessing.

Pay attention to spin. A sidespin serve can skid unpredictably, buying precious reaction time when you are defending a higher square.

Safety and Etiquette

Players should call out close line shots respectfully and replay points if necessary. Arguing over calls slows the pace and ruins the fun.

Keep an eye on uneven pavement or wet spots that can cause slips. If the ball rolls into traffic or another play area, pause the game until conditions are safe.

Wrapping Up

Four square’s simple equipment needs and easy to learn rules make it perfect for schoolyards, driveways and park courts alike. With a little chalk and a bouncy ball, you can set up and start playing in minutes.

Experiment with variations, rotate in new players and focus on quick footwork. Whether you are aiming for the coveted top square or just enjoying casual rallies, four square delivers nonstop action and plenty of laughs.