How to Play Nim

THE PLAYBOOK · FEINA365

Take a moment with Nim before moving to another game. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Read the objective before making your first input. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

A useful comparison

Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Use the example to check your reasoning.

Your goal

Remove the last counter on the board to win. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Keep the controls in easy reach.

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. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.

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. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Keep the game’s format in mind.

Watch out for this

Only one pile may be changed per turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.

Common questions

For this browser game, what is the goal of Nim?

Here is the relevant explanation: Remove the last counter on the board to win.

When I return, how do I control Nim?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Nim?

Here is the relevant explanation: With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn.

While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Nim?

Keep this in mind: Only one pile may be changed per turn.

For a quick reminder, 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.

While reading the Guide, 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.