THE PLAYBOOK · CCTGJX
Learn the rules of Nim
Read the aim of Nim, then make your first move. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Check the rule that explains your first action. Look at what changes after your first action.
Practice beyond the first move
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Make the next step deliberately.
Your objective
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Start with a deliberate move.
Start here and follow along
- 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.
How your actions work
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
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. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Verify the rule before continuing.
Pay attention to this rule
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.
A few questions answered
When I return, what is the goal of Nim?
The key detail is this: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
While learning, how do I control Nim?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
When I return, what example helps explain Nim?
Keep this in mind: If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here.
For this browser game, 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?
Keep this in mind: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Before I begin, 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.
