THE PLAYBOOK · ZZBSDZ
Rules, controls and help for Nim
Nim gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Look at what changes after your first action. Choose a comfortable screen position before beginning. Look at what changes after your first action.
A focus for your next round
Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Use the example to check your reasoning.
What you are aiming for
Remove the last counter on the board to win. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
How to proceed
- 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.
Input guidance
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
See how the rules apply
If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Keep the game’s format in mind.
Pay attention to this rule
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Compare the situation with the worked example. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
More answers before you play
What is the goal of Nim?
Remove the last counter on the board to win.
Before I begin, how do I control Nim?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
Before I begin, what format does Nim offer?
For clarity: 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.