Official Four Square Rules

Last Updated on February 19, 2025 by The Official Game Rules Team

Four Square is a fast-paced playground game played with a rubber ball on a square court divided into four equal sections. The goal is to advance to the highest-ranked square by bouncing the ball into opponents’ squares and eliminating players with strategic plays. Players must hit the ball into another square with one bounce, and if a player fails to return it properly, they are eliminated and rotate out. The game continues with new players cycling in, making it a fun and competitive activity for all ages!

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Four Square Objective

The goal is to stay in the highest-ranked square (Square 1) for as long as possible. Players leave the game if they miss the ball, let it bounce twice, or hit it out of bounds.

Basic Rules

Serving: The player in Square 4 (the server) starts the game with an underhand serve. The ball must bounce once in another square before the receiver hits it back.

Hitting the Ball: Players must hit the ball with their hand after it bounces once in their square. They can only hit it once per turn.

Elimination: Players exit the game if they:

• Miss the ball
• Let it bounce twice in their square
• Hit it out of bounds
• Catch or hold the ball

Rotation: When a player is eliminated, they move to the back of the line. The remaining players shift up one square.

Additional Rules (May Vary)

Server’s Control: The server may have extra privileges or restrictions. For example, they might call for a “school bus,” where all players run to the center before play resumes. Some versions also allow “popcorns,” meaning players can toss the ball in the air before hitting it.

Scoring: Some variations add scoring, where players earn points for time spent in a square or for winning rounds.

Four Square has many versions, and rules often change depending on where you play. No matter the variation, the most important rule is to have fun and stay active!