THE PLAYBOOK · NMGAFT
How to play Nim
Open Nim, check the instructions and begin a round. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Check the rule that explains your first action. Use the example below to understand a decision.
A careful first round
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. 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. Start with a deliberate move.
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. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
A useful example
If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Verify the rule before continuing.
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
While learning, what is the goal of Nim?
Keep this in mind: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Nim?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, 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.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Nim?
The key detail is this: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
For this browser game, what format does Nim offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For a quick reminder, which play mode does Nim use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
