THE PLAYBOOK · W3CHACK
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. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Check the rule that explains your first action. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Keep the aim in sight
Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Remove the last counter on the board to win. The feedback beside the game helps you follow 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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
A useful example
With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Look for the relevant detail.
Watch out for this
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.
Common questions
For my first round, what is the goal of Nim?
Remove the last counter on the board to win.
When I return, how do I control Nim?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
On this playing page, what example helps explain Nim?
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.
On this playing page, 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?
The key detail is this: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For my first round, 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.
