[2] Four square is a popular game at elementary schools with little required equipment, almost no setup, and short rounds of play that can be ended at any time.

A game called four square is mentioned in newspapers in the northeastern United States at least as far back as the 1950s, but the rules are not explained.

Another version is played similar to the original in that four players occupy their respective spots, but they must keep the ball off the ground like in volleyball.

[10] On August 4–5, 2012, a group of 17 Needham High School students and alumni — assisted by 50 other Needham residents at various times — broke the previous world record by playing for 34 hours,[11] the previous record being held by 15 Manchester College students who played the game for 30 hours.

[13] Many terms are used for specific techniques that can be allowed or banned by the primary square:[citation needed] .