In the classic board game Connect 4, players take turns dropping colored discs into a grid, trying to connect four of their own discs in a row. It’s a simple but strategic game that can be enjoyed by players of all ages.

Now, there’s a new challenger to Connect 4: the computer. A number of online Connect 4 games allow players to compete against the computer, and the results can be surprisingly competitive.

The computer is a formidable opponent in Connect 4. It can calculate its moves quickly and make strategic plays that can be difficult for humans to beat. …