THE PLAYBOOK · SZHLJS
How to play Nim
Start Nim by looking at the playing area and its controls. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Treat the first round as a chance to learn the controls. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Build a steady rhythm
Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. 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. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Use one clear input at a time.
A useful example
If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Look for the relevant detail.
Watch out for this
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round.
Common questions
While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Nim?
The key detail is this: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
Before I begin, how do I control Nim?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, what example helps explain Nim?
For clarity: 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.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
While learning, what format does Nim offer?
For clarity: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Which play mode does Nim use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.