THE PLAYBOOK · 51XIONGFEI
How to play Nim
Start Nim by looking at the playing area and its controls. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Review a difficult moment
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. 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. Use the control method described here for this activity. 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. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Common questions
Before I begin, what is the goal of Nim?
The key detail is this: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
How do I control Nim?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Nim?
Keep this in mind: With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn.
For my first round, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Only one pile may be changed per turn.
Before I begin, what format does Nim offer?
Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
When I return, which play mode does Nim use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
