THE PLAYBOOK · 0731222
How to play Nim
Try Nim at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Notice the feedback
Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your goal
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. The example below illustrates a decision.
Step by step
- Player 1 chooses a pile.
- Remove at least one counter, and up to all counters, from that pile.
- The next player chooses a pile and an amount.
- Continue until no counters remain.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
A useful example
With heaps of 1, 2 and 3 counters, choose one heap and remove at least one counter from it. You cannot take from two heaps in the same turn. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Read the matching step again.
Watch out for this
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Common questions
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
While learning, how do I control Nim?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Nim?
Keep this in mind: If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here.
What should I watch out for in Nim?
The key detail is this: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
As a new player, what format does Nim offer?
Keep this in mind: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For this browser game, which play mode does Nim use?
The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
