The board is complex, and I considered both offensive and defensive options. I noticed that while the bottom row has three O's in columns 0-2, a direct connect-4 horizontally isn't immediately available since column 3 is occupied by the opponent. There’s no immediate threat from X that forces a block, and placing in a central column is generally a solid move. By playing in column 1, our piece will land in row4 (since row5 is filled) and help set up potential future connections both vertically and diagonally. It also keeps a lot of flexibility without giving the opponent an opportunity for a quick win. Thus, I choose column 1.